Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Offers $5 Million Reward and Safe Passage for Hostage Returners, Sparking Outrage from Families and Critics
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a $5 million reward and guaranteed safe passage for anyone in Gaza who returns an Israeli hostage. The controversial offer, made Tuesday, aims to expedite the release of hostages still held in the region.
“To those who want to leave this entanglement, I say: Whoever brings us a hostage will find a safe way out for himself and his family. We will also give $5 million for every hostage,”
Netanyahu declared during a visit to the Netzarim Corridor in Gaza alongside Defense Minister Israel Katz.
He issued a stern warning to anyone harming hostages:
“You will pay the price.”
Criticism Mounts Against Netanyahu’s Strategy
The initiative has sparked backlash from both critics and families of hostages. Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, accused Netanyahu of endangering the captives.
“The prime minister is trading the hostages’ lives,” she said. “Offering money to Hamas and attempting to divide Gaza through bribes puts the hostages at greater risk.”
Zangauker also referenced Netanyahu’s controversial 2018 approval of Qatar’s financial aid to Gaza, saying,
“It’s unbelievable that the man who funded Hamas is offering money again.”
Critics have alleged that Netanyahu is stalling hostage negotiations to prolong the war and maintain political power—claims he denies.
Hostages and Tensions in Gaza
Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, more than 1,200 Israelis have been killed, and over 250 people taken hostage. Of those, 97 remain in Gaza, including 34 whose deaths have been confirmed by the Israeli military.
While Israel has rescued some hostages, many were found dead, fueling public outrage. Netanyahu has vowed to bring back every hostage but faces mounting pressure to prove his approach will succeed.
Public Divides Over New Proposal
Netanyahu’s latest move reflects a bold strategy, but whether it will hasten the return of hostages or deepen existing tensions remains uncertain.
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