DaysofPal- The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected the possibility of a prisoner exchange deal despite growing calls within the Israeli government and military for negotiations to secure the release of Israeli prisoners in Gaza, and despite of Hamas’ agreement.
According to the Israeli Channel 13, Netanyahu dismissed discussions of a deal during a security cabinet meeting, insisting that “no deal currently exists” and refusing to bring the matter to a vote.
He argued that the agenda did not include a prisoner release proposal, effectively blocking even a symbolic discussion on the issue.
Some cabinet members, led by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, reportedly demanded that the government vote against any partial release agreement in principle.
They claim that releasing Palestinians in exchange for Israelis would strengthen Hamas and undermine the Israeli military’s genocidal campaign.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military establishment has indicated support for a potential deal, with senior officers warning that refusing negotiations could prolong the Israeli war and worsen the risks to Israeli captives still held in Gaza.
The issue remains highly contentious in the Israeli occupation, where families of the captives have organized protests, demanding the government prioritize their loved ones’ safe return.
Currently, at least 10,400 Palestinians are imprisoned in Israel, including over 3,300 held in administrative detention without charge or trial.
This figure does not include the large number of Palestinians, including doctors, nurses, and paramedics, abducted by Israeli forces during the ongoing war on Gaza.
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