Israel proposes safe exit for Hamas leader in exchange for hostages In a bid to end conflict

Israel has made a significant offer to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, proposing safe passage out of Gaza in return for the release of 101 hostages and a potential end to the ongoing war.

This dramatic move, aimed at breaking the deadlock in current negotiations, was announced by Gal Hirsch, Israel's chief negotiator for hostages and missing persons, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media sources.

According to reports, Israel has been discussing this proposal over the past two days. However, it remains unclear how Hamas will respond to the offer, and whether the group will accept it. Hirsch emphasized that this alternative approach was introduced due to the increasingly murky nature of negotiations, with Hamas reportedly dictating terms rather than engaging in genuine dialogue.

The offer to Sinwar includes the possibility for him, his family, and others who wish to join him, to safely leave Gaza. Hirsch explained that the proposal aims to not only secure the release of the hostages but also address the wider issue of Gaza’s governance. Israel's demands include the demilitarization and deradicalization of the territory, as well as the establishment of a new political framework for the region.

Hirsch stressed the urgency of the situation, stating, "The clock is ticking, and the hostages do not have time." He added that up until now, Hamas has sought to dictate the terms of the negotiations, rather than coming to a mutual agreement.