Hamas has reportedly signaled its willingness to release a larger number of hostages than previously agreed upon in a potential new truce deal, according to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Arabiya news channel. The report suggests that the US has privately assured Hamas it will pressure Israel to engage in talks aimed at ending the war. While the exact number of hostages to be freed remains undisclosed, sources indicate that negotiations are in their final stages, with a two-phase release plan alongside increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. This development marks a potential breakthrough in stalled talks, but key sticking points remain — including Israel’s insistence on dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities before agreeing to a permanent ceasefire.
The deadlock in negotiations has largely centered on the number of living hostages to be exchanged. Israel initially demanded the release of 11 captives, while Hamas offered only five. However, recent reports suggest Israel has softened its stance, now willing to accept the release of nine or ten hostages — including US-Israeli Edan Alexander, recently featured in a Hamas propaganda video. The US has reportedly promised Hamas that if it agrees to free more than eight hostages, Washington will push Israel toward broader ceasefire discussions. This shift comes as diplomatic efforts intensify, with Egypt and Qatar mediating alongside US involvement to revive the January ceasefire framework.
One of the most contentious issues delaying a deal is Hamas’ demand that its leaders be allowed to remain in Gaza post-war — a condition Israel vehemently rejects. Under the emerging proposal, discussions on Hamas’ political future would be postponed, while the terror group would provide medical updates on remaining hostages. Additionally, Egypt has proposed a long-term solution where Hamas would demilitarize under Cairo’s supervision in exchange for a permanent ceasefire. However, skepticism remains high, as Israel insists on maintaining military pressure until Hamas is fully neutralized.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally. While his far-right coalition threatens to collapse if he agrees to end the war without eliminating Hamas, polls show most Israelis support a hostage deal even if it means halting military operations. Netanyahu’s recent meeting with former US President Donald Trump may have influenced his decision to lower hostage demands, signaling a possible shift in strategy. Yet, his government remains adamant that any truce must not prevent Israel from resuming its campaign if Hamas reneges on commitments.
Humanitarian concerns are also at the forefront of negotiations. Israel has conditionally agreed to allow more aid into Gaza and withdraw troops to pre-March 18 positions if a deal is reached. Meanwhile, Hamas insists on a structured release of Palestinian prisoners — including those serving life sentences — though Israel seeks to reduce the ratio of prisoner exchanges. The proposed deal also includes the return of 16 Israeli bodies held in Gaza, with Israel offering to release Gazan corpses in return. These details underscore the complexity of reaching a lasting agreement.
As talks continue, the looming question is whether both sides can bridge their differences before mid-May, when President Trump’s planned visit to the region could further influence negotiations. Hamas appears cautiously optimistic, believing a deal is possible by then, while Israel remains wary of concessions that could leave Hamas intact. With thousands of lives hanging in the balance, the world watches to see if this latest proposal will finally bring an end to the bloodshed — or if the cycle of violence will persist.
The deadlock in negotiations has largely centered on the number of living hostages to be exchanged. Israel initially demanded the release of 11 captives, while Hamas offered only five. However, recent reports suggest Israel has softened its stance, now willing to accept the release of nine or ten hostages — including US-Israeli Edan Alexander, recently featured in a Hamas propaganda video. The US has reportedly promised Hamas that if it agrees to free more than eight hostages, Washington will push Israel toward broader ceasefire discussions. This shift comes as diplomatic efforts intensify, with Egypt and Qatar mediating alongside US involvement to revive the January ceasefire framework.
One of the most contentious issues delaying a deal is Hamas’ demand that its leaders be allowed to remain in Gaza post-war — a condition Israel vehemently rejects. Under the emerging proposal, discussions on Hamas’ political future would be postponed, while the terror group would provide medical updates on remaining hostages. Additionally, Egypt has proposed a long-term solution where Hamas would demilitarize under Cairo’s supervision in exchange for a permanent ceasefire. However, skepticism remains high, as Israel insists on maintaining military pressure until Hamas is fully neutralized.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally. While his far-right coalition threatens to collapse if he agrees to end the war without eliminating Hamas, polls show most Israelis support a hostage deal even if it means halting military operations. Netanyahu’s recent meeting with former US President Donald Trump may have influenced his decision to lower hostage demands, signaling a possible shift in strategy. Yet, his government remains adamant that any truce must not prevent Israel from resuming its campaign if Hamas reneges on commitments.
Humanitarian concerns are also at the forefront of negotiations. Israel has conditionally agreed to allow more aid into Gaza and withdraw troops to pre-March 18 positions if a deal is reached. Meanwhile, Hamas insists on a structured release of Palestinian prisoners — including those serving life sentences — though Israel seeks to reduce the ratio of prisoner exchanges. The proposed deal also includes the return of 16 Israeli bodies held in Gaza, with Israel offering to release Gazan corpses in return. These details underscore the complexity of reaching a lasting agreement.
As talks continue, the looming question is whether both sides can bridge their differences before mid-May, when President Trump’s planned visit to the region could further influence negotiations. Hamas appears cautiously optimistic, believing a deal is possible by then, while Israel remains wary of concessions that could leave Hamas intact. With thousands of lives hanging in the balance, the world watches to see if this latest proposal will finally bring an end to the bloodshed — or if the cycle of violence will persist.
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