Hamas Offers Release of 33 Israeli Hostages, Including Deceased

Photo : AP

Hamas has agreed to a proposed ceasefire deal with Israel, which unfolds in three phases and includes a significant hostage-for-prisoner exchange. As part of the deal, Hamas is set to release 33 Israeli hostages, whether they are alive or deceased. In exchange, Israel would release 30 women and children for each Israeli hostage freed, based on lists provided by Hamas, outlining detainees' earliest date of capture.

The proposal signifies a potential breakthrough in the ongoing conflict, offering a pathway towards de-escalation and humanitarian relief. However, Hamas has indicated that not all hostages included in the initial phase are still alive.

Under the terms of the proposed agreement, the ceasefire unfolds in a meticulously structured manner. In the first phase, Hamas would release three Israeli hostages on the third day of the agreement, followed by the gradual release of three more hostages every seven days, with priority given to women whenever possible. This phase would prioritize the liberation of civilian captives, including civilians and conscripts. By the sixth week, Hamas aims to release all remaining civilian hostages covered by this phase.

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Simultaneously, Israel would reciprocate by releasing the agreed-upon number of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, based on lists provided by Hamas. This exchange of detainees forms a cornerstone of the ceasefire deal, aimed at fostering mutual trust and goodwill between the conflicting parties.

Furthermore, the proposed ceasefire deal outlines specific measures for Israeli withdrawal from certain areas in Gaza. For instance, on the third day after releasing the first Palestinian prisoners, Israeli forces would completely withdraw from al-Rashid street in northern Gaza, with all military installations dismantled. Subsequently, on the 22nd day of the first phase, Israeli forces would withdraw from the center of the strip, east of Salah al-Din road, to an area near the Israeli border.

The ceasefire deal extends beyond the immediate exchange of hostages and prisoners. It encompasses broader objectives, including the facilitation of reconstruction efforts in Gaza, overseen by Qatar, Egypt, and the United Nations. This holistic approach aims to address the humanitarian crisis and rebuild essential infrastructure ravaged by years of conflict.

However, despite the potential for a ceasefire agreement, there are indications of reluctance and skepticism from both sides. While Hamas has accepted the proposed deal, Israeli officials have voiced reservations, citing concerns about the softened terms of the agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has stated that the proposal falls short of Israel's essential demands. Nonetheless, Israel has agreed to send negotiators for talks to explore the possibility of reaching an agreement.

In the midst of these negotiations, tensions remain high, with Netanyahu vowing to continue military actions regardless of any truce. Hamas, on the other hand, insists on a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza as part of the ceasefire deal, with the ultimate goal of achieving a permanent cessation of hostilities.

The developments underscore the complexities and challenges inherent in resolving the longstanding conflict between Israel and Hamas. While the proposed ceasefire deal represents a significant step towards peace and stability, its successful implementation hinges on mutual cooperation, trust-building measures, and a genuine commitment to dialogue and reconciliation.

May 7, 2024 6:02 p.m. 5623

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