Home Middle east Israel / Hamas War Ceasefire Deal Includes Hamas Hostage Releases, Israeli Officials Report

Ceasefire Deal Includes Hamas Hostage Releases, Israeli Officials Report

Israel Receives List of Hostages for Release
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Tel Aviv: Hamas is set to release 33 hostages during the initial stage of a proposed ceasefire agreement, according to Israeli officials. Negotiators in Doha are finalizing the deal, marking a potential breakthrough after months of intense conflict. This truce could pave the way for hostages’ release and additional humanitarian aid for Gaza residents.

94 Hostages Remain in Captivity

Currently, Hamas holds 94 of the original 251 hostages taken during the October 2023 attack, Israeli sources claim. Among them, 34 hostages are believed to be deceased, but some bodies might be included in this release phase. Israel’s optimism stems from the belief that most of the 33 hostages set for release are still alive.

Ceasefire and Hostage Exchange Details

The agreement’s initial phase involves a 42-day ceasefire, during which the first releases will occur. Negotiations for the second phase, aimed at ending hostilities entirely, are expected to start after 16 days. The truce seeks to address longstanding territorial issues while easing conditions for civilian populations.

International Involvement and U.S. Mediation

President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of the deal during a foreign policy address on Monday. Biden highlighted efforts to free the hostages, secure Israel, and provide humanitarian assistance to war-affected Palestinians. Washington remains actively involved in pushing all sides toward a resolution.

Territorial Challenges in Agreement

Israeli forces plan to secure key areas, including the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border, during this phase. Previous disagreements over this region derailed potential agreements in earlier negotiations. A border buffer zone remains a point of contention, with Hamas and Israel proposing differing dimensions for the area.

Hamas suggests maintaining the pre-October 7 size of 300-500 meters, whereas Israel seeks an extended 2,000-meter-wide zone. The two sides must reconcile these differences to sustain progress in broader negotiations.

Path Forward Hinges on Initial Success

The ceasefire’s success depends on the implementation of this first phase and building trust through immediate actions. Officials on both sides remain cautious but hopeful that sustained engagement can ease tensions and foster stability.

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