Ceasefire talks thrown into tumult after the discovery of six hostages slain in Gaza
CNNCNN — The Saturday discovery of the deaths of six hostages has thrown negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas into tumult, with the White House national security adviser saying that “the next few days will be critical” in the push to free those still held by Hamas. Hamas’ “seriousness” about a ceasefire deal must now be called into question, said a senior US official, who added that pressure is now also growing on Netanyahu. He also released a tape message accusing Hamas of the “cold-blooded murder” of the six hostages and saying that “those who murder hostages do not want a deal.” He added that the Israeli government and that he, personally, are “committed to continue working towards a deal that will bring back all our hostages and guarantee our security and existence.” The prime minister said Israel would continue to pursue Hamas and accused it of not wanting to conduct genuine negotiations since December. Even after the United States updated the outline of the deal on August 16 — we agreed, and Hamas again refused.” Anger is rising across Israel at Netanyahu specifically, and he is “worried” about the widespread protests sweeping the country, an Israeli official told CNN.