Breaking: Breakthrough in Israel-Hamas Hostage Deal Could Free 10 Hostages and Pause War

A glimmer of hope emerged over the weekend as reports surfaced of a possible breakthrough in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, with a new framework proposing the immediate release of 10 hostages and a ceasefire lasting up to two months. According to a source familiar with the talks, speaking to Kan News, momentum is building, and a deal could be finalized within the next 24 hours. The proposed agreement marks a significant step forward in the stalled negotiations, which have resumed with direct talks for the first time in months, following Hamas’s decision to return to the negotiating table in Doha, Qatar.

The framework outlines an immediate release of 10 living hostages in a single phase, accompanied by a ceasefire of approximately six to eight weeks. On the tenth day of the agreement, Hamas would provide a detailed list specifying the condition of all hostages in its custody, including both the living and the deceased. A contentious point in the discussions is the potential release of 200 to 250 terrorists, which remains a significant sticking point between the two sides. The renewed talks were spurred by Israel’s launch of a new military operation in Gaza, prompting Hamas to reengage, as announced by Defense Minister Israel Katz earlier on Saturday.

Both parties have agreed to negotiate without preconditions, a move hailed by a Hamas official who stated, “Both sides are discussing all issues without any preconditions.” This approach aims to break the deadlock that has hindered progress for months. However, Israeli officials expressed frustration over the public disclosure of the talks, emphasizing discretion as key to success. One official remarked, “Those who truly want the negotiations to succeed don’t run to tell everyone about it.” The direct negotiations, confirmed by posts on X and reports from Reuters, reflect a cautious optimism, though the contentious issue of terrorist releases could still derail the process. As the talks unfold in Doha, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings relief to the hostages and a pause to the conflict.

Main points regarding the upcoming potential hostage deal being discussed in Doha:

Sources familiar with the negotiations say that while there is no breakthrough yet, there is positive momentum with ongoing talks in Qatar.