Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made his first visit on July 3 to Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the hardest-hit communities during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The kibbutz, located near the Gaza border, lost a quarter of its roughly 400 residents in the attack, with many others taken hostage by Hamas militants. The prime minister's visit comes amid a renewed push for a US-backed ceasefire deal that could lead to the phased release of hostages and a gradual de-escalation in Gaza.
During his visit, Netanyahu was accompanied by his wife, Sara, and met both with grieving families and survivors. The reception was mixed. Some embraced him while others openly expressed frustration and demanded quicker action to bring the hostages home. One of the most emotional encounters came from Einav Zangauker, whose 24-year-old son Matan remains captive in Gaza and suffers from muscular dystrophy. She urged Netanyahu to act decisively, saying, “Now is the time for action.”
Netanyahu reiterated his government's commitment to bringing all hostages back, both living and deceased, and pledged continued support to rebuild the devastated community. He acknowledged the suffering of the families and said the return of hostages remained one of his top priorities.
The visit coincides with ongoing negotiations involving a potential 60-day ceasefire agreement mediated by the United States. The proposed deal includes a phased exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, an Israeli military withdrawal from key areas of Gaza, and the entry of humanitarian aid. The initial phase could see 10 living hostages and five bodies returned in exchange for temporary calm and the start of broader talks.
Hamas has confirmed that it is reviewing the proposal in consultation with other Palestinian factions. Officials said a response could be expected within days. The group has demanded strong guarantees that any temporary ceasefire would eventually lead to a permanent end to hostilities and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen. On the same day as Netanyahu's visit, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed at least 59 Palestinians. One airstrike targeted a school in Gaza City, killing 17 people, according to local medical sources. The Gaza Health Ministry estimates that more than 57,000 Palestinians have died since the start of the war.
The upcoming July 7 meeting between Netanyahu and former US President Donald Trump at the White House is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of the ceasefire discussions. Israeli and US officials remain hopeful that the talks could lead to a breakthrough in the long-standing conflict.
Netanyahu's visit to Nir Oz marks a symbolic and strategic moment. It underscores the domestic political pressure on his leadership and highlights the urgency of securing a ceasefire that could pave the way for hostage returns, humanitarian relief, and long-term peace negotiations.