Netanyahu Suggests Assad's Fall Could Aid Hostage Deal in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated Sunday that the collapse of Syria’s Bashar al-Assad regime could facilitate a potential deal for the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, CE Report quotes Anadolu Agency

Assad and his family reportedly fled Syria and arrived in Moscow, where Russia has offered them asylum. This development followed the takeover of Damascus by anti-regime groups earlier the same day, signaling the end of Assad’s Baath Party rule, which had dominated Syria since 1963. The fall of the regime comes shortly after opposition forces captured Aleppo, a key northern city.

In discussions with families of Israeli hostages, Netanyahu suggested that Assad’s ousting was partially influenced by Israel’s military actions against Hezbollah and Hamas. He remarked that this could create new opportunities to secure the release of hostages. Israel estimates that 101 of its citizens are currently held in Gaza.

Efforts mediated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar to broker a ceasefire and prisoner exchange have faltered amid Netanyahu’s decision to continue military operations. Israel's campaign in Gaza, ongoing since October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant loss of life, with over 44,600 fatalities reported, primarily women and children.

The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over alleged war crimes in Gaza. Additionally, Israel faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice related to its actions in the territory.