Netanyahu Stands Firm on Qatar Criticism Despite Leaked Audio

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his criticism of Qatar ahead of a potential meeting involving US officials, stating that he will not back down from pressuring Hamas or any party that can influence it. He also denied a brewing crisis with Egypt and defended his efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza, while criticizing the families of the captives for their public campaign, arguing that it plays into the hands of Hamas. Netanyahu's comments come amid ongoing negotiations for a potential second hostage deal involving Qatar, Egypt, and Israel.