Global Outlook

  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 s...