Israel-Hamas War: In a significant development, Israel and Hamas are engaged in negotiations over two separate proposals for the release of hostages, as reported by The New York Times. According to officials, one proposal involves a small number of people, while the other contemplates the release of over 100 civilians currently held in Gaza.
Israeli authorities claim that Hamas, the terror group, has more than 240 hostages in Gaza, with just under half of them being civilians. The larger deal being discussed would include the release of all these civilians. The first proposal suggests Hamas releasing 10 to 20 civilian hostages, including Israeli women, children, and foreigners, in exchange for a temporary cessation of hostilities by Israel. A subsequent release of approximately 100 civilians could follow if both parties agree.
However, Hamas has refused to release military-age Israeli men held in Gaza. In a separate demand, Hamas seeks a brief pause, increased humanitarian aid, fuel for hospitals, and the release of women and children in Israeli prisons in exchange for releasing all civilians.
While the United States supports Israel pausing attacks for a hostage release, the Israeli government remains uncertain about releasing its prisoners. Qatar, hosting Hamas’s political offices, serves as the main mediator, alongside senior U.S. officials.
Complicating matters, Hamas claims it holds only 20 or fewer civilians, asserting that other groups in Gaza, not under Hamas’s command, are responsible for the rest. The governments involved in the talks have not independently verified this claim.
Recent weeks have seen conflicting narratives, with Hamas officials stating they targeted only military outposts, while evidence suggests attacks on civilians. Despite claiming to have captured 130 to 140 Israeli military personnel, Hamas shows no intention of releasing them soon. Israeli and U.S. officials express skepticism about the accuracy of Hamas’s claims regarding civilian hostages.
The Israeli Prime Minister’s office declined to comment on the ongoing negotiations at this time.
*Note: The situation is dynamic, and further updates may follow.*