Israel resumes negotiations after soldiers' kidnapping in Gaza

The Israeli war cabinet has decided to give the green light to resume negotiations for the release of hostages held in Gaza. This decision comes after the release of a video showing five Israeli female soldiers being kidnapped by the Palestinian Islamist movement Hamas on October 7th. In the footage, the soldiers can be seen with their hands tied behind their backs, some with bloody faces, sparking outrage among families and the international community. In response to this situation, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to fighting against Hamas to prevent further acts of violence like those during the soldiers' kidnapping. The Israeli war cabinet has instructed its negotiating team to return to the negotiating table to seek the release of the hostages, in an effort to end this crisis affecting both sides. Truce talks, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, have been stalled since early May due to disagreements between the parties. The October 7th attack left over 1,170 people dead in Israel, mostly civilians, and 252 people kidnapped, of which Israel claims 124 remain in Gaza, with reports of deaths among them. In response to these events, Israel launched an offensive against the Gaza Strip, governed by Hamas since 2007, aiming to eliminate the Palestinian Islamist movement. However, this offensive has come at a high human cost, with at least 35,709 Palestinians killed, mostly civilians, according to data from Hamas' Ministry of Health. The violence escalation has continued in Gaza with bombings and artillery fire, causing deaths and destruction in different areas of the Palestinian territory. The situation has become increasingly critical, with reports of clashes and attacks in various areas, raising international concern. In addition to the situation in Gaza, Israel has faced diplomatic pressure from several countries that have announced their recognition of the Palestinian State. Spain, Ireland, and Norway have expressed their intention to recognize Palestine by the end of the month, leading to tensions and the summoning of Israel's ambassadors in those countries for consultations. Amidst this tense and conflictive scenario, the creation of a viable Palestinian State is hindered by various factors, such as Jewish settlement in occupied West Bank and Prime Minister Netanyahu's opposition to this possibility. Uncertainty and violence persist in the region, as the international community seeks solutions to end this conflict that has claimed many lives and caused suffering on both sides.