Amid continued Israeli strikes in Gaza, hostage exchange deal underway
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Efforts towards a potential deal for the release of hostages in Gaza have gained momentum in recent days, with Hamas and Israel expected to reach an agreement to exchange surviving hostages, including Israeli nationals, dual citizens, and others still in captivity since Hamas's surprise attack on Israel on 7 October 2023.
Reports suggest that about 60 hostages are still alive, alongside the bodies of 35 others, out of more than 240 who Hamas took during the attack.
The incoming US president, Donald Trump, has shown strong interest in the situation, stating that the hostages must be released by his inauguration date on 20 January 2024, or there will be serious consequences. To facilitate the negotiations, Trump has sent a special envoy for hostage affairs to Israel, meeting with Israeli leaders including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has briefed lawmakers on the progress of negotiations, claiming that Israel and Hamas are closer to a deal than they have ever been since the last agreement in November 2023, which resulted in the release of over 100 hostages. Katz expressed confidence that the emerging deal would gain broad support within the Israeli government.
Although the details of the deal remain tightly guarded, it is understood to involve a phased ceasefire, initially lasting 60 days, in exchange for the release of hostages, particularly women, the elderly, and those with health issues. Israeli Minister for Diaspora Affairs Amichai Chikli confirmed this structure, explaining that the most vulnerable hostages would be released first, followed by others in subsequent phases.
Recent reports from Arab media suggest that Hamas and Palestinian militias are showing greater flexibility regarding a gradual cessation of hostilities. The negotiations are reportedly focused on the number of hostages to be released in the first phase. Past sticking points, such as the presence of Israeli troops in certain areas of Gaza, have been sidelined for now. However, the issue of Palestinians returning to their homes in northern Gaza remains a sensitive topic.
Trump’s involvement has intensified over the past week, despite his presidency not yet officially beginning. He has made clear that the release of hostages is a key priority, and his envoy, Adam Boehler, met with Netanyahu to further discuss the issue. Although there have been multiple failed attempts at reaching an agreement in the past, there is cautious optimism that the combination of international pressure and internal developments will yield a successful resolution.
Amid these negotiations, Israel has maintained its stance that it will retain control over Gaza’s security even after a ceasefire is agreed upon. Defence Minister Katz emphasized that Israel would continue to hold authority over the region to prevent a return to the situation prior to the October attack.
Despite the challenges, there is hope for progress, with Israeli officials expressing belief that a deal to free the hostages is closer than ever. Meanwhile, Israeli military strikes in Gaza continue, with at least 14 Palestinians reported killed in recent attacks, highlighting the ongoing conflict as negotiations unfold.