Israel is calling for the release of all 50 hostages held in Gaza, as reported by Israeli public broadcaster Kan citing the prime minister’s office on Tuesday. This comes amid ongoing talks about a proposed deal involving a 60-day truce and the release of half the hostages.
On Monday, Hamas agreed to a 60-day ceasefire proposal with Israel, which includes releasing half the hostages in Gaza and some Palestinian prisoners, according to an Egyptian official source.
Senior Hamas official Basem Naim confirmed the group’s acceptance of the proposal, stating on Facebook: “The movement has conveyed its approval of the new proposal presented by the mediators.”
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Efforts to halt the conflict gained momentum last week after Israel revealed plans for a new offensive on Gaza City. Both Egypt and Qatar are pushing to resume indirect talks between the sides regarding a US-backed ceasefire plan.
The proposal includes the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel and an unspecified number of women and minors in exchange for 10 living and 18 deceased hostages from Gaza, a Hamas official stated.
Two Egyptian security sources confirmed these details, adding that Hamas has also requested the release of hundreds of detainees from Gaza.
The proposal involves a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces, currently controlling 75% of Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid to the enclave, where 2.2 million people are facing severe food shortages.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Majed Al Ansari mentioned that the 60-day truce deal includes “a pathway to a comprehensive agreement to end the war.”
