After a month-long conflict between Hamas and Israel, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh announced that the two sides are nearing a truce. The potential deal would not only involve the release of hostages taken during and after the October 7 attacks but also bring an end to the ongoing violence in Gaza, where over 13,300 people, mostly civilians, have been killed.
While Israel has not yet responded to the ongoing negotiations, Haniyeh shared on Telegram that the deal is close to being finalized. He stated, “We are close to reaching a deal on a truce.”
Hamas sources confirmed that the group has agreed to the terms of the potential deal, with the release of hostages being a primary condition. It is reported that between 50 and 100 Israeli civilian and foreign hostages would be released, excluding military personnel. In return, approximately 300 Palestinians, including women and children, would be released from Israeli jails.
The deal also includes a five-day truce, which encompasses a ceasefire and limited Israeli air operations over southern Gaza. This truce would facilitate the evacuation of foreigners and the wounded through Egypt’s Rafah border.
US President Joe Biden hinted at the imminent deal, mentioning that it was being brokered by Qatar, where Hamas maintains a political office. The president of the International Committee of the Red Cross also met with the Hamas leader in Qatar.
According to Hamas and Islamic Jihad sources, the deal would also allow for the entry of up to 300 trucks of food and medical aid into Gaza. Israel has been cautious about permitting fuel into the region due to concerns that it could be used by Hamas for rocket attacks or other paramilitary purposes.
The negotiations continue, and the international community eagerly awaits further updates on the potential truce.
