![Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar](https://images.jfeed.com/cdn-cgi/image/format=jpeg,fit=contain,width=900/2024/07/22/7c12c0c0-47f8-11ef-92f9-1b32553736e2__h331_w650.webp)
According to a Wall Street Journal report, mediators from the Arab states have indicated that Sinwar is seeking to intensify the military pressure on Israel by expanding the conflict, including through attacks from the Judea and Samaria regions.
Following his meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the negotiations for a hostage deal.
In a video released by the Prime Minister's Office, Netanyahu said: “I had a good and important meeting today with Secretary of State Blinken. I greatly appreciate the efforts that the United States is investing in regional defense against the Iranian axis. This is, of course, important for the State of Israel."
He added: "I also greatly appreciate the understanding that the United States has shown for our essential security interests, while we work together to secure the release of our hostages. I want to emphasize: efforts to release the maximum number of live hostages – already in the initial phase of the deal."