Watch: Netanyahu reveals "20 Hostages Still Alive, No Ceasefire Until Victory"

In a press conference on May 21, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation, outlining the ongoing objectives of the war against Hamas and reaffirming Israel’s commitment to securing the release of all hostages and ensuring Gaza poses no future threat. He began by expressing condolences for two fallen soldiers, saying, “Good evening, citizens of Israel, on behalf of all of you, I first wish to convey heartfelt condolences, and also from the depths of your hearts, to the dear families of Sergeant Yosef Yehuda Chirak and Staff Sergeant Danilo Mokanu, may their memories be blessed, who fell in the Gaza Strip.” Netanyahu emphasized the war’s heavy toll but underscored its clear purpose: “The War of Revival exacts heavy prices from us, but it has a justified and clear purpose like no other: to defeat Hamas, which committed the atrocities of October 7, to bring back all our hostages, and to ensure that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.”

He detailed significant achievements, including the elimination of tens of thousands of terrorists, key Hamas leaders like Yahya Sinwar, and the destruction of terror infrastructure. Netanyahu noted, “Thanks to the heroism of our fighters and the wise decisions we made, we have so far brought back 197 hostages, including 148 living hostages.” He affirmed that 20 living hostages and up to 38 deceased remain, vowing, “We will bring them all back.” Rejecting calls to halt the war, he highlighted operations in Rafah and Lebanon, including the daring pager attack on Hezbollah and the destruction of their missile stockpiles. Netanyahu also addressed humanitarian concerns, stating, “To prevent Hamas from controlling humanitarian aid, we developed, together with the United States, a different plan, a plan for distributing basic food to civilians and children that will not reach Hamas.”

Criticizing domestic opponents like Yair Golan, who accused Israeli forces of war crimes, Netanyahu declared, “While our heroic soldiers risk their lives in the Gaza Strip to protect our country and bring back our hostages, Yair Golan accuses them of war crimes. He says we kill babies as a ‘hobby.’” He concluded with resolve, saying, “Together we will fight, and with God’s help, together we will win.”

Sources: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s press conference, May 21, 2025.