Russia engages with Hamas, Israel to secure hostage release

The Russian government is conducting negotiations with both Hamas and Israel aimed at securing the release of hostages, said Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Bogdanov in a recent announcement.

Bogdanov highlighted that the Foreign Ministry has established contacts regarding the release of hostages, including Russian citizens, with both Israel and Hamas, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media. 

He emphasised that Russian diplomatic missions in Qatar and Israel are actively involved in these efforts.

Meanwhile, on October 29, Hamas announced it had responded positively to mediators' requests to discuss new cease-fire proposals and work towards finalising a hostage swap agreement in the Gaza Strip.

Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior official of Hamas, stated during a news conference that the group has participated in “some meetings” regarding this matter and is open to further discussions.

He expressed Hamas's willingness to consider any agreement or suggestions that could alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza, achieve a complete cease-fire, facilitate the withdrawal of Israeli forces, lift the blockade, and support the reconstruction efforts in the territory. 

Additionally, he highlighted the importance of securing a serious deal for the prisoners held by Hamas.

Israeli authorities estimate that around 101 captives remain in Hamas's custody, with concerns that some may have been killed in the ongoing Israeli airstrikes that have impacted the densely populated enclave.

Despite ongoing mediation efforts led by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, a cease-fire agreement has yet to materialise.

However, Washington believes that the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar on October 18 could pave the way for a breakthrough in negotiations.

By Aghakazim Guliyev