Tue Mar 25 16:17:59 UTC 2025: ## Israeli President Criticizes Government’s Prioritization of Hostages

**Jerusalem, March 25, 2025** – Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed shock and dismay Tuesday over the apparent downgrading of the hostage crisis in Gaza to a lower national priority. His statement comes days after he publicly criticized the government’s decision to renew fighting in the region.

In a video released by his office, President Herzog stated that the fate of the remaining 58 hostages held by Hamas militants should remain a top national concern until all are returned. “We must never lose sight of this issue…until every last hostage is brought home,” he emphasized.

His comments follow a recent surge in violence. On March 18th, Israel launched air strikes on Gaza, ending a nearly two-month ceasefire that saw the release of 33 hostages. Since then, the death toll in Gaza has risen dramatically, with at least 792 reported deaths according to the Hamas-run health ministry, bringing the overall death toll from the conflict to over 50,000. The initial October 7th Hamas attack on southern Israel resulted in 1,218 Israeli deaths, according to AFP.

President Herzog’s criticism directly targets Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, echoing concerns voiced by thousands of Israelis protesting the renewed fighting in Jerusalem. Many protesters believe the government’s actions jeopardize the safe return of the hostages. Families of the hostages have also expressed outrage, accusing the government of prioritizing war over the lives of their loved ones.

The renewed conflict has heightened tensions, particularly as Hamas recently released a video featuring two hostages, Elkana Bohbot and Yosef Haim Ohana, pleading for their release. President Herzog’s statement underscores the growing divide between the government and a significant portion of the Israeli public over the handling of the ongoing crisis.

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