Israel is currently weighing how to respond to a proposal from Hamas for a week-long ceasefire in exchange for a list of hostages, following Mossad Chief David Barnea’s planned visit to Qatar tomorrow, Ynet reports.
Ynet’s article mentions that Israel is contemplating presenting a counter-proposal to Hamas’ offer. The counteroffer would involve agreeing to the ceasefire under the condition that Hamas releases a number of hostages to demonstrate its commitment to freeing the remaining captives.
To facilitate a deal in which at least 24 individuals are freed during the first phase of a broader ceasefire arrangement, Israel is attempting to apply pressure on Hamas to release also those who are injured and under the age of 50, categorizing them under humanitarian terms.
Hamas, however, argues that this request was not part of the “summaries” they had been given, which is why they are calling for the release of individuals with long prison sentences for serious terrorist offenses or a substantial number of prisoners in exchange for the freedom of young male hostages.
In related developments, a source familiar with the negotiations told Al Araby Al Jadeed earlier today that “today is a decisive day for the fate of the negotiations between Hamas and Israel. The mediators managed to bridge the gaps between the two sides through compromise solutions, and are awaiting the Israeli government’s response tonight.”
Israeli officials familiar with the talks surrounding a potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange stated last night that the only obstacle remaining to finalizing the deal is Hamas’ consent. All other aspects of the agreement have reportedly been settled, but Hamas is still refusing to provide a list of hostages that they are willing to release, claiming they need “a week’s break” to locate the hostages.
A report from Amit Segal indicated that agreements have already been made regarding the Philadelphi Corridor, the Netzarim Corridor, and the number of terrorists to be released. If Hamas comes to an agreement, however, it is expected to lead to a major conflict within the Israeli coalition.
Hamas is also exerting pressure on Israel through tactics such as releasing signs of life from hostages, including a video clip that surfaced on Saturday showing Liri Albag. According to reports, Hamas may have released this footage of Albag, a female soldier who is slated for release in the first phase of the deal, to create additional pressure points, particularly in encouraging Israel to agree to release more dangerous terrorists.
“The video clip published today tore our hearts to pieces,” Albag’s family shared. “It’s not the same daughter and sister we know. She is not in a good place, it’s clear her mental situation is difficult.”
Kan News reported last week that Hamas had proposed a week-long ceasefire without including any immediate release of hostages. On the fourth day of the ceasefire, Hamas planned to provide a list of hostages it could release. The ceasefire would give Hamas a window to gather additional information about the remaining captives.
{Matzav.com Israel}