Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has offered $5 million and safe passage out of Gaza to anyone who returns a hostage, a move that has been criticized by the mother of one of the hostages. Netanyahu maintains this is an effort to secure the return of the hostages, while critics accuse him of stalling negotiations for political gain. The offer comes amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began in October 2023 with the capture of over 250 Israelis by Hamas militants.