In a significant development, Hamas has agreed to a U.S. proposal to start discussions on releasing Israeli hostages, including soldiers and men. This decision comes 16 days after the initial phase of an agreement aimed at ending the Gaza conflict, a senior Hamas source told Reuters on Saturday.
Shift in Hamas’ Stance
The militant Islamist group has notably dropped its previous demand that Israel first commit to a permanent ceasefire before any agreement is signed. Instead, Hamas is now open to allowing negotiations to achieve a ceasefire throughout the six-week first phase of the proposed agreement. This shift was disclosed by the source under the condition of anonymity due to the private nature of the talks.
A Palestinian official involved in peace efforts indicated that the U.S. proposal could lead to a framework agreement if Israel agrees. An Israeli negotiator also noted a real chance of reaching an agreement, contrasting with past rejections of Hamas’ conditions.
Conflict Toll and Mediation Efforts
The Gaza conflict has resulted in over 38,000 Palestinian deaths since Hamas attacked southern Israeli cities on October 7, killing 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages, according to Israeli figures.
Mediators would ensure a temporary ceasefire, aid delivery, and Israeli troop withdrawal during indirect talks to implement the second phase of the agreement. Efforts to secure a ceasefire and hostage release have intensified, with active diplomacy involving Washington, Israel, and Qatar, which leads mediation from Doha.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Mossad’s chief returned from initial talks in Qatar, with further negotiations planned. International efforts are increasing to resolve the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
(With inputs from Reuters)
