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Is a deal imminent?

BREAKING: Hamas provides a list of all living hostages

The Washington Post reports Hamas's apparent flexibility comes as the group faces "historic weakness" in Gaza, with mounting pressure from its own supporters to end the war.

Person holds up poster of Hamas hostage background
Person holds up poster of Hamas hostage
Photo: Shutterstock / Yehuda Bergstein

Hamas has provided Israel with names of living hostages through Egyptian mediators as a goodwill gesture, marking a potential breakthrough in negotiations. This development came as the terrorist organization dropped its demand for a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, according to The Washington Post.

Family members continue to live with uncertainty. Ofri Bibas, sister of captive Jordan Bibas, told ynet that the last information about her brother was received six months ago, not three months as previously reported. The family is still seeking information about Shiri Bibas and her children Ariel and Kfir, who Hamas claimed were killed - a claim Israel has not confirmed. They were originally scheduled for release in the November deal.

"We don't know if Jordan will be included in the humanitarian phase due to his condition, or if he'll be left behind," Ofri Bibas said. "We won't know anything until the phases begin and we enter that terrible cycle of lists again."

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Egyptian officials report "intensive mediation efforts" while Israeli sources indicate progress but emphasize no deal has been finalized. The proposed framework includes:

- A 7-week humanitarian pause

- Release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners

- Potential deportation of released prisoners to third countries

- Gradual return of civilians to northern Gaza

Zvika Mor, father of captive Eitan Mor, expressed concern about a partial deal that could "seal the fate of young men and soldiers." He advocates for all hostages to return "on one bus" rather than in phases.

Israeli negotiators have not presented the detailed framework to the cabinet to prevent leaks but reported "significant progress." The goal is to reach an agreement during Hanukkah, before President-elect Trump's January 20 inauguration.

Ynet contributed to this account.

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