Families of captives urge Israeli government to secure release through diplomacy

The families of captives have intensified their calls for the Israeli government to negotiate with Hamas for the release of those still held. Udi Goren, representing the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, addressed parliament members from the Knesset, emphasizing the urgency of a diplomatic resolution.

In an interview with Al Jazeera, Goren articulated the families’ concerns and demands. “Israel must make sure that its borders are secure. We need to make sure that Hamas can’t carry out an attack like October 7 again,” he said. Goren acknowledged the role of the military but stressed that a long-term solution requires more than just military action.

“The military has done what it had to do, weaken Hamas enough so they cannot hurt us,” Goren continued. “From this point on, it needs to go into the diplomatic phase.”

The families’ pleas come amid heightened tensions and the ongoing strike, reflecting a growing consensus that a comprehensive diplomatic effort is essential to resolving the crisis and securing the release of captives.