JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to the United States comes as negotiations to end the Israel-Hamas war and recover hostages held in Gaza inch forward — with no immediate deal in sight.
Egypt, Qatar and the United States continue to push Israel and Hamas toward a phased cease-fire agreement that would stop the fighting and free the hostages. The negotiations have repeatedly hit obstacles over disputes about the governance of post-war Gaza and how enduring the cease-fire will be.
Netanyahu’s vowing “total victory” in Gaza to thunderous congressional applause Wednesday risks inflaming tensions with Hamas at a time when talks are delicate. But he also came under increased U.S. pressure to engage sincerely in cease-fire efforts. Critics say Netanyahu is stalling during negotiations so that he can draw out the war for his own political gain.
A team of Israeli negotiators that was meant to travel to Qatar for another round of talks was held back Thursday and may be dispatched next week.
Here’s a look at how Netanyahu’s visit might impact the talks:
It may have bolstered pressure for a deal
During the trip, Netanyahu seemed to avoid public mention of cease-fire talks, angering hostage families in Israel who felt their plight was ignored. Domestic pressure runs high for a deal that would bring home the remaining 110 hostages, but Netanyahu also faces opposition from his far-right governing partners…
