Hamas has reportedly reached a draft cease-fire agreement with Israel, which includes the release of dozens of hostages. This information was cited by The Associated Press, referencing “officials involved in the discussions.” This potential deal is the first indication in months that the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas, ongoing for over a year, may be approaching a conclusion.
The proposed agreement is expected to unfold in three phases, starting with an initial 42-day cease-fire. During this period, 33 hostages—including children, women, and elderly men—are anticipated to be released. In return, Hamas will receive hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including notable detainees. An Israeli government official has stated that “most” of the 33 hostages who were taken by Hamas on October 7, 2023, are still alive.
Regarding the hostage exchange for prisoners, the Israeli government official indicated there is a “price” for securing the release of captives. Nonetheless, the source emphasized that Israel would “not leave the Gaza Strip until all of our hostages are back home.”
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In the first phase of the agreement, Israel would commence a withdrawal from parts of northern Gaza, permitting Palestinians to return to their homes. However, security analysts caution that this withdrawal could provide Hamas with an opportunity to regroup.
Additionally, during the initial phase of the deal, humanitarian aid is set to be delivered to the Gaza Strip.
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Details regarding the second phase are expected to be negotiated during the first phase. A draft agreement mentioned by the AP suggests that, in this phase, Hamas will release the remaining living hostages in exchange for a “complete withdrawal” of Israeli forces from Gaza. An Egyptian official reportedly informed the AP that negotiations for phases two and three are expected to take place before the conclusion of the first phase.
“This marks the first time since November 2023 that we are genuinely negotiating with Hamas, and they are not playing games in these discussions,” remarked an Israeli government official to FOX News.
The official pointed to significant events, including the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and increasing domestic pressure on the terror group, as pivotal moments in creating favorable “conditions” for a deal.
Qatari and Israeli officials have expressed optimism regarding the potential deal that could signal an end to the ongoing war.
Thousands have lost their lives in the 15-month conflict, which began after Hamas’ violent assaults on October 7, 2023, resulting in more than 1,200 Israeli fatalities and over 250 individuals taken hostage.
