As the conflict between Israel and Hamas enters another fraught chapter, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken with U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, focusing on key developments in Syria and efforts to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas in Gaza. The conversation underscores the heightened urgency of the situation as Israel faces one of its most challenging foreign policy dilemmas ahead of Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025.
Hostages at the Heart of the Conflict
The ongoing hostage crisis remains a central issue. On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a devastating attack on Israel, killing more than 1,200 people and abducting over 250 individuals, including both Israeli and foreign nationals, with dual Israeli-American citizens among the victims. While over 100 hostages have been freed through military actions or diplomatic efforts, roughly half of the remaining hostages are still believed to be alive, their fate hanging in the balance as Israel’s military response continues.
In response to the attack, Israel’s military actions in Gaza have led to widespread devastation. According to Hamas-run authorities, nearly 45,000 people have been killed in the ongoing conflict, mostly civilians. The humanitarian crisis has displaced almost the entire population of Gaza and left the region in ruins. Despite Israel’s military dominance, the situation remains unresolved, and the effort to bring about a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages is gaining urgency.
Truce Efforts and International Diplomacy
In the midst of this turmoil, the international community, led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, has been working to broker a truce. The aim is not only to halt the violence but also to facilitate the release of the hostages. The U.S. has been actively involved in this process, with President Joe Biden’s outgoing administration pushing for a deal. U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who recently visited the region, expressed optimism that a ceasefire and hostage deal could be within reach. Moreover, U.S. Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer stated that there is growing momentum toward achieving such a deal.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Netanyahu and Trump’s discussions have centred on Israel’s continued military strategy in Gaza, with Netanyahu emphasizing the importance of ensuring Israel’s victory and securing the release of the remaining hostages. “We discussed the need to complete Israel’s victory,” Netanyahu explained, acknowledging the complexity of the situation as the country strives to balance military objectives with humanitarian concerns.
Tensions in Syria
In addition to the Gaza situation, Netanyahu and Trump also addressed developments in Syria. The situation in Syria has been further complicated by the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. Israel has carried out numerous airstrikes targeting Syria’s strategic weapons stockpiles, seeking to mitigate the potential threats posed by terrorist elements close to its border. Netanyahu stressed that while Israel does not seek a conflict with Syria, it will continue to take necessary actions to neutralise threats. “We have no interest in a conflict with Syria,” Netanyahu clarified. “Israeli actions in Syria were intended to thwart potential threats and prevent the takeover of terrorist elements near our border.”
The situation in Syria remains volatile, with Israel’s military actively working to ensure that the country’s northern border remains secure. The fall of Assad has opened a new chapter of uncertainty in the region, further complicating Israel’s security concerns as it deals with hostilities in Gaza.
The Road Ahead
As Israel and Hamas continue their war, the path to peace remains uncertain. The push for the release of hostages and the ongoing diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire are vital components of any potential resolution. With Trump set to take office in January, his administration’s involvement in the Middle East peace process will be closely watched.
While the situation in Gaza remains dire, the possibility of a truce and a hostages agreement offers a glimmer of hope. However, with the uncertainty of stamp duty increases, the impact of global politics on Israel’s strategy, and the challenges posed by regional instability in Syria, the coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of this prolonged conflict. The fate of the hostages and the broader peace process will be at the forefront of international diplomacy as the world watches.