The chairman of the Israeli National Security Council, Tzachi Hanegbi, indicated that the start of hostage releases in the Gaza Strip is not expected before November 24. This information comes from the office of the Israeli prime minister and was reported by RIA News. The timeline remains tied to ongoing talks and the evolving security assessment as officials align on the conditions needed to begin social and humanitarian releases amid a volatile regional situation.
Hanegbi added that negotiations regarding the release of hostages are continuing, underscoring that the process, based on the initial accords, will not commence before Friday. The statement reflects a cautious approach, with authorities weighing security guarantees, verification measures, and reciprocal steps as talks proceed. In parallel, diplomatic channels have been active as both sides assess risk, trust-building signals, and the broader implications for civilian safety inside and around Gaza.
Earlier, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that Israel would maintain momentum in its operations unless a ceasefire in Gaza is honored. The stance centers on ensuring security for Israeli communities while evaluating the humanitarian demands within the broader military framework. Officials emphasize that any pause would depend on verifiable commitments and the lasting impact on regional stability, including the protection of civilians and the restoration of predictable conditions on the ground.
Additionally, Israel’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Gilad Erdan, noted that once the current conflict with Hamas concludes, Israel intends to address outstanding regional concerns and participate in a constructive regional security dialogue. The remark signals a broader strategy to stabilize the area by combining military objectives with diplomatic engagement, reconstruction plans, and cooperative arrangements with neighboring states.
On November 22, Israel approved a framework with Hamas permitting a four-day ceasefire during which Hamas would release 50 women and children. This agreement marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing negotiations, creating a window for relief operations and humanitarian aid to reach vulnerable families, and testing commitments on both sides. Observers highlight the delicate balance between security needs and humanitarian access as talks continue and the situation remains highly fluid.
Previously, Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined Israel’s overarching goals in the campaign against Hamas, stressing the aim of restoring long-term security for Israeli citizens, deterring future aggression, and restoring stable governance in affected areas. The stated objectives encompass operational pressure, targeted countermeasures against militant networks, and a comprehensive strategy that seeks to prevent new escalations while laying groundwork for potential political arrangements in the future.