A senior political source expressed optimism regarding a deal to release hostages, noting that "it is more likely we will reach a deal than not reach one. A hostage deal is achievable. I don't know how much longer it will take, negotiations with Hamas are never an easy or quick event." The source added that "the government has an interest in releasing hostages and this is the line Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leading. Yes, there are disagreements at various levels, for example issues that haven't been deeply explored such as the keys to release."