Quote Originally Posted by jon1959 View Post
Why do you think release of the hostages would bring 'it' to an end?

If Hamas release their hostages the Israeli government would not end the destruction of Gaza and massacre of civilians (under the pretext of destroying Hamas).

I assume you are not talking about the hostages held by Israel (AKA Palestinian prisoners held without charge or trial - often for years)?

The only outcome that will bring this to an end - or at least to a period of truce, rebuilding, and possibly some reconciliation - is a political settlement. That will not happen with the Netanyahu government in power. It may not happen with the current Hamas and PA leadership in power. It will not happen if the USA does not use its' diplomatic, financial and military influence to achieve it.

But world opinion has moved and in my opinion there is more chance of a settlement now (after more pain and suffering) than any time in the last 20 years.
I think releasing all the hostages stolen on Oct 7th would massively help, yes.