A Hamas representative, who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that the group has agreed to a list of 34 hostages as requested by Israel. This list is part of ongoing discussions surrounding a potential ceasefire and the release of hostages.
The same official stressed that any agreement would be dependent on Israel’s full withdrawal from Gaza and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. They pointed out that there has been no movement from Israel on this issue so far.
Reports suggest that Israel has presented a list of 34 hostages it wishes to see freed during the initial phase of a potential deal. As of last week, Hamas had agreed to release 22 of the hostages, who include women, the elderly, and the sick, but had refused to free others, reportedly men who could be of military age.
Prime Minister bIBI Netanyahu has firmly stated, during several rounds of failed talks, that Israel will not commit to ending the war completely. He emphasized that Israel’s fight against Hamas would resume once any agreement is finalized.
{Matzav.com Israel}