In a significant development, the radical Palestinian movement Hamas is anticipating an announcement from Qatar, acting as a mediator in contacts with Israel, regarding the details of a deal for the release of hostages seized by the group on October 7th. According to a representative of Hamas, as reported by Al Arabiya, the agreement will address humanitarian aspects and involve an exchange of hostages held in the Gaza Strip for Palestinian prisoners.
On the same day, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh stated that an agreement on a ceasefire with Israel was drawing closer. He mentioned that the movement had conveyed its response to Qatar and the mediators.
Israeli publication Yedioth Ahronoth reported that Hamas had resumed contacts with Israel through Qatari mediators regarding the hostage release.
The Wall Street Journal also relayed that Hamas had pledged to release 50 hostages in exchange for a five-day ceasefire.
Previously, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu had vowed to destroy Hamas.
