Herzog insists on hostage release as a precondition for peace talks

In a recent diplomatic visit to Latvia, Israeli President Isaac Herzog reinforced his long-standing position regarding negotiations with Hamas. He emphasized to Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs that Israel will not engage in discussions unless all hostages held by Hamas are freed. This statement reflects Israel's broader stance following the October 7 attack by Hamas, which significantly shifted public opinion against a feasible two-state solution. Herzog expressed doubts about the potential for lasting peace under the current division between the Palestinian Authority and Hamas, stating he supports efforts toward a peaceful resolution but recognizes the prevailing challenges. Herzog's comments highlight an urgent issue: the plight of Israeli hostages. He described their deteriorating conditions and accused Hamas of intentionally neglecting their well-being while sustaining adequate provisions for themselves. Herzog emphasized that the essential condition for any progress in the peace process is the return of these hostages to their homes. He stressed that addressing this humanitarian crisis is imperative to alleviate the ongoing tragedy in Gaza. In addition to his diplomatic efforts, Herzog has appealed for global solidarity, urging the international community to adopt a unified position towards Hamas. He called for a collective response emphasizing that conversations with the group will not occur until all captives are released. This call for action is seen as an attempt to garner support for Israel's stance while putting pressure on Hamas. While Herzog's advocacy for humanitarian aid persists, he also noted that Israel has increased the flow of humanitarian supplies into Gaza. Over the past ten days, Israel has provided 23,000 tons of aid, including food and medicine, even as the captives remain in dire circumstances. These efforts underline the complexity of the situation, as Israel attempts to address immediate humanitarian needs while ensuring the safety and return of hostages. The situation remains volatile, with Herzog's visit indicating deeper concerns about the future of peace in the region amid ongoing conflicts.