Title: Israel in Negotiations with Hamas Over Prisoner Exchange Deal
The Saudi news channel “Al-Sharq” reported today that an Israeli security delegation will arrive in Cairo to discuss the details of a hostage deal with Hamas. Sources privy to the details told the Saudi channel that the negotiations focus on the release of 40 prisoners, including the elderly, sick, injured, women and minors under the age of 18, in exchange for the release of several hundred Palestinian prisoners imprisoned in Israel.
The discussions also involve a commitment to a ceasefire ranging from three weeks to a month, the withdrawal of IDF forces from the heart of the Gaza Strip, an increase in humanitarian aid, including food and medicine, as well as the return of displaced Palestinians to the north of the Strip. However, the deal will not include Palestinian prisoners who serve as “symbols” such as Marwan Barghouti, Ahmed Saadat, and other prominent names.
In a separate report, it was revealed that a Hamas delegation is in Cairo discussing negotiations on another deal with Israel for the release of hostages and security prisoners. The delegation demands several days of a complete ceasefire in the entire strip, in exchange for the release of hostages. However, Israel rejects this condition, emphasizing that “there will be no final ceasefire to the war before the elimination of Hamas.”
Last week, Cairo presented a preliminary draft of a proposal stating that Hamas would relinquish power in exchange for ending the war in Gaza. According to the Egyptian proposal, there will be a phased ceasefire, with the initial phase being temporary for a week or two, and it can be renewed later. However, Hamas and Islamic Jihad rejected this proposal for now.
The negotiations and discussions indicate a delicate situation in the region, with the potential for both conflict and resolution looming on the horizon. This developing situation will certainly be one to watch in the coming weeks.