US, Israel close to ceasefire-for-hostage deal in Gaza conflict

Negotiations for a ceasefire-for-hostages deal in the Gaza conflict are nearing completion, according to a senior US official.

On July 24, it was announced that US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will discuss the remaining issues on July 25, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media sources.

The talks, which aim to resolve a months-long impasse, focus on securing a six-week ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages held by Hamas. These hostages include women, elderly men, and wounded individuals, who would be released over a 42-day period. The US official expressed optimism, noting that the current negotiation climate is more favourable than it was a month ago, when more significant obstacles were present.

The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7 when Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel, has resulted in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 250 captives, according to Israeli sources. The violence has led to more than 38,000 fatalities in Gaza. Israel estimates that around a third of the 120 hostages still held by Hamas and other militant groups may be dead.

President Biden is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Netanyahu, with Vice President Kamala Harris also set to meet with the Israeli leader later in the day. The US official emphasized that both Biden and Harris are fully aligned on US policy toward Israel and Gaza, indicating a unified stance in their discussions with Israeli officials.