Lagatar24 Desk
Doha: In a significant development towards a potential ceasefire in Gaza, Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages in the first phase of a ceasefire-hostage deal, according to reports from CNN. This comes as part of ongoing negotiations mediated in Doha, with both parties nearing the finalization of the agreement.
Hostages and Key Developments
Hamas and its allies are currently holding 94 hostages, including at least 34 believed to be deceased, following the October 7, 2023 attacks. Israel has indicated that most of the 33 hostages to be released in the initial phase are alive, though there is a possibility that some deceased hostages could be included.
According to an Israeli official, the agreement is on the verge of being signed, with implementation expected to begin immediately. A diplomat involved in the talks revealed that the final round of discussions is set to take place in Doha on Tuesday.
Framework of the Agreement
The deal’s first phase includes critical measures such as:
•Maintaining an Israeli presence along the Philadelphi Corridor on the Egypt-Gaza border.
•Discussions on the size of a buffer zone within Gaza, with Hamas proposing 300-500 meters and Israel seeking a 2,000-meter zone.
•Allowing residents of northern Gaza to return under unspecified security measures.
•Restricting the release of Palestinian prisoners associated with the killing of Israelis to Gaza or other countries, excluding the West Bank.
Negotiation Progress and Challenges
Breakthroughs in the talks reportedly occurred after a meeting on Sunday between Israeli Mossad Director David Barnea and mediators in Doha. However, the deal must still be approved by Israel’s security and government cabinets and may face legal challenges in the Supreme Court.
An Israeli official described the timeline for the agreement as imminent, noting, “It is impossible to say whether it is a matter of hours or days.”
Humanitarian Concerns
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum expressed cautious optimism but emphasized their commitment to securing the release of all hostages. Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll continues to escalate. Following the October 7 attacks, Israel launched military operations in Gaza, with reports from the Palestinian Ministry of Health indicating that at least 46,565 Palestinians have been killed and over 100,000 injured.
This agreement, if finalized, marks a significant step toward de-escalation in the region, setting the stage for further negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
