Israeli officials involved in the negotiations for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange with the Hamas terror group have revealed that the only obstacle preventing a deal at this stage is Hamas’ refusal to agree. While all other terms have been finalized, Hamas continues to withhold the list of hostages to be released, citing the need for “a week’s break” to locate the captives.
A report by Amit Segal indicated that key elements of the agreement, including the arrangements for the Philadelphi Corridor, the Netzarim Corridor, and the number of terrorists to be freed, have been settled. If Hamas ultimately agrees to the terms, it could trigger a significant internal conflict within Israel’s coalition government.
In a move to exert pressure on Israel, Hamas has also released signs of life from some hostages, including a video clip aired on Saturday showing Liri Albag. According to reports, the decision to publish this video, featuring a female soldier who is scheduled for release in the first stage of the swap, may be an effort to target one of Israel’s more vulnerable points or to push the Israeli delegation into agreeing to the release of more dangerous terrorists.
“The video clip published today tore our hearts to pieces,” said Albag’s family. “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.”
{Matzav.com Israel}