In a potential shift in strategy, Israel is reportedly considering refraining from eliminating the leaders of the radical Palestinian movement Hamas in order to attempt an exchange for remaining hostages in the Gaza Strip. This information comes from Israeli television channel Kan 11, citing its own sources.
According to the report, Israeli leaders are exploring the possibility of granting immunity to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and the head of the movement’s military wing, Mohammed al-Deif, who are currently located in the Gaza Strip. They would then be sent to Qatar or another country in exchange for the hostages kidnapped by militants on October 7th.
Sources mentioned by the television channel state that this prospect is being discussed by Israel’s military and political leadership, although no concrete proposals have been made yet.
Tensions in the Middle East escalated on October 7th when thousands of armed Hamas supporters infiltrated Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip, attacking civilians and abducting over 200 hostages. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a state of war. A ground operation was initiated with the goal of retrieving the hostages and completely eliminating Hamas.
Israel decided to halt the supply of water, food, goods, electricity, and fuel to the Gaza Strip, and began massive bombardments.
On December 5th, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched the third phase of the ground operation in the Palestinian enclave, surrounding the city of Khan Yunis.
On November 22nd, Israel and Hamas agreed to a humanitarian pause and the release of some hostages. During the week of the ceasefire, Hamas returned 110 captives.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu had vowed to destroy Hamas.
