Israel Approves Salaries for Hamas Hostages, Public Opinion Divided

As the government supports families of hostages, polls reveal a split in priorities between hostage release and defeating Hamas.

The Israeli government has approved the payment of 'replacement salaries' to hostages held by Hamas, retroactive from October 7, to support their families.
Currently, there are 136 hostages in Gaza, including 32 believed to be dead.
Nearly half of Israeli residents prioritize the release of hostages over the complete removal of Hamas from power, according to recent polls.
Public opinion in Israel is divided, with significant political and demographic differences in priorities regarding the war against Hamas.
The debate over priorities in the Israel-Hamas conflict has sparked protests and calls for earlier elections.