Lebanon Report: Hostage Deal Could Be Reached by Next Week

"Window for Gaza Hostage Deal Opens, Egyptian Sources Tell Lebanese Paper"

Egyptian officials claim a breakthrough in hostage negotiations could come as early as next week, according to Lebanon's Hezbollah-affiliated Al-Akhbar newspaper. The report suggests Trump envoy Steve Witkoff's arrival in Doha today might signal U.S. approval to finalize an agreement, particularly after signs of flexibility from Netanyahu's office.

The proposed deal, as outlined by Egyptian sources, would establish a 6-8 week ceasefire and increase humanitarian aid to Gaza, including rebuilding its healthcare system. Under the framework, Hamas would later provide a list of surviving hostages and remains in their possession, while Israel would maintain its positions along the Philadelphi Corridor and Netzarim.

Key sticking points remain: Palestinian Authority President Abbas continues to reject Egyptian mediation efforts with Palestinian factions, while Egyptian officials express concern about potential Israeli delays seeking additional concessions. The paper notes Hamas leadership remains skeptical of Israel's commitment to any potential agreement.

Notably, the framework reportedly shelves the contentious issue of Gaza's future governance for later discussions, focusing instead on immediate humanitarian concerns and hostage release mechanisms.

Kikar HaShabbat contributed to this article.