Netanyahu urges unity in 'Israel' ahead of expected Gaza captive release

Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday addressed mounting tensions surrounding the newly announced Gaza ceasefire deal, urging 'Israelis' to set their differences aside ahead of an expected captives release.

In a televised speech, the 'Israeli' Prime Minister struck an emotional tone. “This is an emotional evening, an evening of tears, an evening of joy, because tomorrow our children will return to our borders,” Netanyahu said, quoting a biblical verse.

“Tomorrow is the beginning of a new path, a path of rebuilding, a path of healing, and, I hope, a path of united hearts,” he added.

The comments come as Netanyahu faces sharp criticism from multiple sides. Families of captives held in Gaza by Hamas have accused his government of focusing on military objectives instead of prioritizing the safe return of their loved ones.

The backlash was visible during a rally on Saturday, when US envoy Steve Witkoff praised Netanyahu’s leadership, prompting boos from parts of the crowd.

At the same time, hardliners in his coalition have slammed the ceasefire arrangement, opposing the prisoner swap included in the deal.

Netanyahu acknowledged the complexity of the moment, “This is a historic event that mixes sorrow over the release of murderers with joy over the return of hostages,” he said.

“I know there are many disagreements among us, but on this day ... we have every reason to put them aside, because together we achieved tremendous victories.”