Israel Proposes Gaza Ceasefire Deal to Release 10 Hostages for Hundreds of Palestinians, Hamas Says

Israel Proposes Gaza Ceasefire Deal to Release 10 Hostages for Hundreds of Palestinians, Hamas Says

In a significant development in the ongoing Gaza conflict, Hamas has claimed that Israel has proposed a ceasefire agreement that includes the release of 10 Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The international pressure to end the months-long war that has displaced a significant portion of the population of Gaza and killed thousands of people is growing, and the potential deal comes amid this. According to senior Hamas officials, the proposal outlines a temporary cessation of hostilities during which the exchange would take place. The deal reportedly includes provisions for humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza and limited returns of displaced Palestinians to their homes in the north of the enclave, in addition to the hostage-for-prisoner swap. Hamas stated that the offer was under review, but emphasized that any agreement must include a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel, however, has maintained that it will not end the war until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are freed.

After weeks of indirect negotiations facilitated by mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, the reported agreement was reached. Previous ceasefire talks have stalled over key sticking points, including the duration of the truce and the scope of Israel’s military presence in Gaza post-ceasefire.

The offer's specifics have not yet been made public by the Israeli government. However, sources close to the negotiations indicate that Israel is under intense pressure from families of the hostages and international allies to find a resolution.

The proposed swap echoes a previous deal in November 2023, in which a temporary truce led to the release of 105 hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.

Despite the fact that both sides face significant political and military obstacles, the current agreement could be a significant step toward de-escalation if it is implemented successfully.