Shas Party pushes PM Netanyahu to complete hostage deal

"We believe that the conditions created now following the military pressure and the targeted eliminations, create a proper timing to reach a deal that preserves Israel's essential security interests

 Shas leader MK Arye Deri and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seen at the Knesset, in Jerusalem, on January 23, 2023 (photo credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)
Shas leader MK Arye Deri and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seen at the Knesset, in Jerusalem, on January 23, 2023
(photo credit: YONATAN SINDEL/FLASH90)

The Shas party called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a letter on Wednesday to complete a hostage deal.

"We believe that the conditions created now following the military pressure and the targeted eliminations, generate a proper timing to reach a deal that preserves Israel's essential security interests and return the hostages home," the letter read.

Shas calls on Netanyahu not to heed coalition voices opposing the deal

Shas added, "The Shas faction urges you not to fear voices within the coalition opposing the deal and strengthens you to continue to act responsibly" for a hostage deal. 

 Demonstrators protest calling for the release of Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip and against the current Israeli government outside Hakirya Base in Tel Aviv, April 20, 2024. (credit:  Itai Ron/Flash90)
Demonstrators protest calling for the release of Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip and against the current Israeli government outside Hakirya Base in Tel Aviv, April 20, 2024. (credit: Itai Ron/Flash90)

Regarding Netanyahu's upcoming trip to the US, the letter noted, "We congratulate you on your important trip to the US to faithfully represent Israel's position on this important stage and for the fact that you include the families of the hostages in your trip, and are sure that this trip will greatly help to promote the hostage deal and bring it close to a conclusion soon."

The Shas letter comes amid mounting pressure on Netanyahu to achieve a deal before his trip to the US, where he is expected to address Congress next week.