Media: American hostages to be first released as part of Israel-Hamas deal

Hamas has initiated preparations for the potential release of hostages as part of a possible agreement with Israel.

According to Al Hadath TV, the hostages have been separated into groups, with US citizens being relocated to safe areas in anticipation of the deal, per Caliber.Az.

Coordination is ongoing with mediators and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to arrange their transfer.

Hamas has also requested international and American guarantees to ensure that Israel will uphold the terms of the agreement. Among the key demands is Israel's commitment not to arrest newly released Palestinian prisoners, as reported by the Walla publication. Additionally, Hamas has called for assurances that Israel will not prosecute Hamas members following a ceasefire.

Mediators from the US, Qatar, and Egypt are facilitating talks between the parties. The discussions focus on the phased release of hostages taken by Hamas during the 2023 conflict, alongside the release of some Palestinian prisoners from Israeli detention. A ceasefire in Gaza is also part of the discussions, though the duration remains unclear, and Israeli military forces are expected to withdraw, leaving only a buffer zone.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza, which escalated after Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has led to significant casualties. More than 1,200 people were killed in Israel, and over 200 hostages were taken. In response, Israel launched Operation Iron Swords. The Ministry of Health in Gaza reported that over 46,500 people have died as a result of the fighting.

By Tamilla Hasanova