In a surprising turn of events, Hamas has agreed to a US-backed proposal for a hostage release-ceasefire agreement with Israel, despite dropping their demand for a complete end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, there is a catch – Hamas is now requesting “written guarantees” that negotiations towards a permanent truce will continue even after the initial phase of the plan is implemented.
The initial approval from Hamas came after receiving verbal commitments from Egyptian and Qatari mediators, but they are now seeking assurance in writing. Israeli Mossad intelligence director David Barnea met with Qatari mediators and rejected the demand for a written commitment, leading to a standstill. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to send negotiators back to Doha for further discussions, but significant gaps between the parties remain.
The proposed agreement involves the release of women, children, and injured hostages by Hamas in exchange for Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners over a six-week period. Phase two would see the remainder of hostages released in exchange for more Palestinian prisoners, contingent on sustainable calm and Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza. The final phase involves the return of remains of hostages who died in captivity to Israel.
The plan has garnered support from families of hostages across Israel, who see it as a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing conflict. While there is optimism for a ceasefire agreement, concerns linger about Hamas potentially prolonging negotiations and the challenges Israel may face if the deal falls through. Despite the hurdles, there is a sense of progress in the negotiations towards a lasting peace in the region.
