Gaza truce and hostage release deal is in final stages, says Qatar

Efforts led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages taken during Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel are reportedly nearing completion.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday that negotiations had reached their "final stages," expressing optimism that an agreement would be finalised soon.

Late Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with top security officials to discuss the deal. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasised that the next steps depended on Hamas, stating, "If Hamas accepts, the deal is ready to be concluded and implemented."

U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi have urged both parties to demonstrate "flexibility" to finalise the agreement. Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar indicated that there was "true willingness" on Israel's part to reach a resolution.

Reports suggest the first phase of the deal would involve the release of 33 Israeli hostages by Hamas, while Israel would free approximately 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli media indicated that the agreement might also permit Israel to maintain a buffer zone inside Gaza during the initial phase.

Hamas spokespersons have expressed their desire for a "clear and comprehensive agreement" and have briefed other Palestinian factions on the progress.

The conflict, triggered by Hamas's attack, has claimed thousands of lives. Over 1,200 Israelis, mostly civilians, were killed in the October 7 attack, with militants also taking 251 hostages, according to official figures. As of Tuesday, 94 hostages remain in Gaza, including 34 believed to be deceased.

In retaliation, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 46,000 people, most of them civilians, according to figures from Gaza’s health ministry.

While some in Israel’s government support the deal, others, such as far-right cabinet members Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, have voiced opposition, describing it as a "disastrous deal." Saar expressed confidence that a majority in Netanyahu’s government would back the agreement if finalised.

Disagreements over the permanence of a ceasefire, the extent of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops remain significant obstacles. Netanyahu has ruled out a complete withdrawal from Gaza and opposes Palestinian governance of the territory.

Despite diplomatic efforts, Israeli forces have continued their military operations in Gaza. Overnight airstrikes and shelling reportedly killed at least 18 people, with further casualties reported in the Jenin refugee camp in the West Bank.