PM Pledges Priority to Return Kidnapped Israelis in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with the families of Israelis who were kidnapped by Hamas in Gaza, promising to prioritize their return. The families have criticized the government for allegedly abandoning their loved ones. Netanyahu clarified that a statement made by National Security Council chief Tzachi Hanegbi, which suggested that negotiations would not be held with an enemy that Israel vowed to wipe out, did not represent his opinion. The families demanded that all avenues be explored to secure the immediate release of the captives, including contact with Hamas, Arab leaders, and influential figures. Protests have been held outside the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, and the IDF announced the recovery of remains of missing Israelis without providing further details.