Netanyahu Thanks Trump For Strong Support On Gaza Strategy

Netanyahu Expresses Gratitude to Trump for Backing Israel’s Gaza Decisions

Successful Hostage-Prisoner Exchange Amid Rising Tensions

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended his heartfelt appreciation to U.S. President Donald Trump for his steadfast support amid ongoing developments in the Gaza Strip. His acknowledgment came shortly after Israel concluded the sixth hostage-prisoner exchange under a fragile truce that has lasted nearly a month.

Following the exchange, Netanyahu’s office stated: “Prime Minister Netanyahu values President Trump’s unwavering backing of Israel’s strategic decisions concerning Gaza.” This came in response to Trump’s social media statement emphasizing that Israel should have the autonomy to determine its next steps in light of the latest agreement.

The exchange involved the release of three Israeli hostages held in Gaza in return for 369 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli detention facilities.

Tensions Surrounding the Hostage Release Agreement

Despite the successful swap, the deal was nearly derailed days before, with Hamas asserting it would not yield to pressures from Israel or the U.S. Disagreements over the truce’s execution led to concerns over its sustainability.

President Trump issued a stark warning, stating that failure to release all Israeli hostages by midday Saturday would result in severe consequences. In a social media post, Trump wrote: “Israel will now have to determine their course of action regarding the 12:00 PM deadline for the release of all hostages. The United States will fully support whatever decision they make.”

Netanyahu’s office credited Trump’s strong stance for influencing the successful release of the three hostages, despite Hamas’ previous refusal to free them.

For further insights on Israel-U.S. relations, visit BBC News.