Hamas signals openness to partial hostage exchange deal

Hamas may have shifted its stance on negotiations for the release of hostages and is reportedly open to agreeing to a partial deal.

Israeli media reports that, according to Channel 12, which cited a confidential document recently received by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas’ position aligns with a proposal from US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. The plan would see the release of 10 living and 18 deceased hostages in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Channel 12 noted that negotiations could move faster than previous attempts, with two unnamed sources suggesting Hamas’ response might be ready as early as next week.

Urgent discussions took place in Cairo involving all armed groups in the Gaza Strip, including Hamas and Islamic Jihad, amid reports of a potential IDF re-entry into Gaza. Earlier claims of a “comprehensive deal” were reportedly overstated. Hamas remains committed to the Egyptian plan for Gaza’s governance and has expressed readiness to form a joint committee with Cairo to supervise any withdrawal of Israeli forces.

The militants have called on Arab nations, international organisations, UN bodies, and human rights institutions to “fulfil their historical and legal obligations.”

Previously, media reports indicated that Palestinian factions were willing to consider initiatives involving a complete ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and lifting the blockade on Gaza. Israel, however, rejected a mediator’s proposal for a 48-hour pause in hostilities. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing.

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly assault that killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages.

Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reports more than 60,000 deaths since the start of the war, a figure disputed by Israel. Israeli officials report killing 21,600 militants while losing 459 personnel during the campaign.

By Tamilla Hasanova