Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a statement to the media from the runway at Ben Gurion Airport before his flight to Washington, saying that "there is an opportunity to expand the circle of peace far beyond what we could imagine." According to him, "We have freed hostages, 20 remain alive and 30 deceased. I am determined to bring them all back, and ensure Gaza will not pose a threat to Israel. We will not allow a situation of more kidnappings and murders, which means eliminating Hamas' military capabilities." He added that "we are working to achieve the deal on terms we have agreed to. I sent a negotiation team with clear instructions. The conversation with Trump can advance this."