Jerusalem, 1 July, 2025 (TPS-IL) — Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Tuesday urged his country’s diplomats departing on overseas missions to prioritize efforts to secure the return of hostages held by Hamas. Speaking at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Herzog stressed the urgency of the mission, calling it “the strongest and most significant effort” Israel faces today.

“There is nothing more important than saving lives and returning our sisters and brothers—some to their homes, and some, tragically, to their graves,” Herzog said. He urged the diplomats to be determined and creative in dealing with what he called a “cynical and bitter enemy,” and highlighted key diplomatic channels in Qatar, Cairo, and Washington ahead of the prime minister’s U.S. visit.

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