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Israel has presented Hamas with an updated ceasefire proposal through Egyptian intermediaries, which includes the release of the remaining 100 hostages.
This latest proposal, which builds on previous efforts, comes amid shifting regional dynamics and international pressures, including the recent elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar in October and the incoming administration of President-elect Donald Trump.
Israeli officials confirmed that the proposal was finalized in discussions led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, senior ministers, and top security officials, before being handed over to Egyptian intelligence. Egypt has emerged as the primary mediator in these negotiations, with Qatar also playing a key role.
According to one Israeli official, Egypt and Qatar believe Hamas may now be willing to accept a partial hostage release and ceasefire deal.
The proposal outlines a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas that would last between 42 and 60 days. During this period, Hamas would be required to release female hostages, male hostages aged over 50, and those in critical medical conditions.
Initially, Israel had demanded the release of 33 hostages in these categories, but it has since tempered its expectations, acknowledging that some hostages may no longer be alive.
In exchange, Israel has reiterated its readiness to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences.
“We are waiting for the Egyptians to inform us of Hamas’s response,” an Israeli official said, adding that a decision on the proposal could be expected in the coming days.
Should Hamas agree to the framework presented, an Israeli delegation is set to travel to Cairo to finalize the details, including the length of the ceasefire, the number of hostages to be freed, and the identity of Palestinian prisoners to be released.
In Washington, Israel’s Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer has met with National Security Advisor Mike Waltz to discuss the ceasefire deal.
A Trump administration advisor emphasized that President-elect Trump supports a resolution to the hostage crisis and a Gaza ceasefire, provided the agreement is satisfactory to Israel. Trump is keen for the deal to be completed before his inauguration on January 20.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani also confirmed ongoing discussions with Trump’s team.
“We have heard from Trump’s advisors that he wants the hostage issue and the Gaza ceasefire resolved before he takes office,” Al Thani told Sky News. “We hope both sides understand this message.”
As Israel waits for Hamas’s response, the international community remains focused on the potential for a ceasefire and hostage release deal. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the region’s stability in the coming months.