Hamas to Release 33 Hostages in First Phase of Ceasefire Deal

Tel Aviv, Israel: Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages in the first phase of a ceasefire agreement being negotiated in Doha. This development marks a critical step in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Gaza, CNN reported, citing Israeli officials.

Key Details of the Agreement

• The hostages’ release follows the October 7 attacks, where Hamas and allies took 250 hostages and caused over 1,200 deaths in Israel.
• Among the 94 remaining hostages, at least 34 are believed to be deceased, according to Israeli officials.
• Talks are close to conclusion, with final discussions set to occur in Doha.

Security Arrangements and Contentions

The agreement includes Israeli forces maintaining a presence along the Philadelphi Corridor on the Egypt-Gaza border. However, differences remain regarding the size of the proposed buffer zone:

• Hamas seeks a 300-500 meter zone, while Israel demands a 2,000-meter buffer.

Proposals also include allowing northern Gaza residents to return, subject to unspecified security protocols. Palestinian prisoners involved in attacks on Israelis would not return to the West Bank but be relocated to Gaza or third countries.

Negotiation Progress

A breakthrough occurred during a meeting between Israeli Mossad Director David Barnea and mediators in Doha. The deal must now pass Israel’s government and security cabinet reviews, with potential legal challenges from the Supreme Court.
“There is talk of an agreement in the near future–it is impossible to say whether it is a matter of hours or days,” an Israeli official stated.

Cautious Optimism

While optimism grows, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged caution, emphasizing the importance of securing the release of all hostages.

Ongoing Conflict in Gaza

Since the October 7 attacks, Israeli military operations have resulted in over 46,565 Palestinian deaths and 100,000 injuries, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health.