Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to send a delegation to resume negotiations with Hamas on a hostage release deal with the help of U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediators. The Israeli negotiating team believes there is a real chance of achieving an agreement after Hamas made a revised proposal that includes a significant breakthrough. The head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency will lead the delegation for talks.
The White House confirmed that President Biden and Netanyahu discussed Hamas’ response to possible terms of a deal. The Israeli negotiating team noted that there is a deal with a real chance of implementation, but there is a risk of it being scuttled by political considerations from far-right partners in Netanyahu’s coalition who may quit the government if the war ends before Hamas is destroyed.
Hamas has shown flexibility over some clauses in the proposal, which would allow a framework agreement to be reached if Israel approves. The plan includes the release of Israeli hostages, a ceasefire in Gaza, and phased actions leading to the reconstruction of the war-shattered territory. The death toll in Gaza from the war has passed 38,000, with both civilians and fighters affected.
Both sides are cautiously optimistic about the prospect of renewed talks to end the conflict. Palestinians in Gaza are exhausted and hope for an end to the war, while Israel continues to target Hamas military capabilities. The situation remains fragile, with continued violence and casualties on both sides.
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