Netanyahu Departs Washington Amid Hostage Deal Tensions

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded his high-stakes visit to the United States on Thursday night, departing Washington en route back to Israel as intense political debate over a potential Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal continues to mount.

Before leaving, Netanyahu made a symbolic visit to Andrews Air Force Base and toured the historic home of Thomas Jefferson, emphasizing the enduring bond between Israel and the United States.

In an interview with Newsmax just prior to his departure, the prime minister expressed cautious optimism about progress toward a partial ceasefire agreement that could lead to the release of 10 living hostages held by Hamas. “We hope to reach a deal soon,” Netanyahu said, while tempering expectations of a comprehensive release.

His remarks followed the leak of a recording shared by Israel’s N12 news, in which Netanyahu acknowledged that securing the release of all hostages at once was unlikely prompting reactions across Israel’s political spectrum.

From the right, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir urged Netanyahu to reject what he called a “reckless” agreement, warning against any compromise that leaves Hamas in power. On the other side, opposition leader MK Benny Gantz of the Blue and White party called on the prime minister to stay in Washington until a framework for the full return of all hostages was secured.

“Prime minister, don’t return until there is a framework for the return of all the hostages,” Gantz said in a video statement. “Stay and keep up the pressure.”

The pressure on Netanyahu reflects the emotional and political weight of the hostage crisis, with more than 50 Israelis still believed to be held in Gaza following Hamas’s October 7 attack. While Israel has achieved military and diplomatic gains, including a powerful joint U.S.-Israeli front against Iran, the public demand for a decisive resolution to the hostage situation remains urgent.

As Netanyahu returns to Israel, he carries with him both cautious hope for progress and the growing burden of expectations from a deeply divided yet determined nation.

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