On Friday's “CNN Newsroom,” Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) said the time has come for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be willing to make concessions in negotiations with Hamas, and in the Gaza Strip. If an agreement is reached, “that will happen,” he said. It will determine how Israel views the nature of its retaliation against Iran. ”
After Krishnamoorthi said the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar made a hostage deal more likely because Sinwar changed his demands in negotiations, host Jim Schutt asked:[T]There were times during the negotiations when U.S. negotiators felt that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was adding to or sticking to his demands. So did some of Netanyahu's own military commanders, for example the continued presence of Israeli troops along the Gaza-Egypt border. They don't seem to believe that is a requirement here. Do you think now is the time for Israeli leaders to make concessions as well? ”
Krishnamoorthi replied: I believe that any absolutist demands from his side would endanger the safety of the hostages. I think he has a moment now where he can stick to reasonable terms and preserve the possibility of further action if Hamas does not comply. But for now, Jim, we need to come to a truce regarding the hostages. Entry into Gaza requires massive humanitarian aid. And I believe that will also help limit the likelihood of the Lebanon scenario spiraling out of control, and certainly, it will also have an impact on how Israel views the nature of its retaliation against Iran. I think so. ”
to follow Ian Hanchett's Twitter @Ian Hanchett
