EXCLUSIVE: 'Most Hostages alive' - Major breakthrough in Negotiations reveals 33 to be freed in first phase
Following reports of progress in the negotiations for a hostage deal, a political source clarified that the talks have entered an accelerated phase and that final closures are needed. It was also clarified that Israel will not withdraw from Gaza until the last hostage is released.


A senior Israeli political source revealed tonight (Monday) that negotiations for a hostage deal with Hamas have reached an advanced stage, though final details remain to be settled. Most critically, Hamas has yet to provide the list of hostages to be released.
Progress, while slow, has been steady over recent weeks, according to the source. Israeli negotiators spent eight days in Qatar during the previous round of talks, and Prime Minister Netanyahu provided a new mandate last Friday. The source indicated that conditions have shifted significantly in Israel's favor, citing extensive military achievements that have severely weakened Hamas.
The First Phase: 33 Hostages
The initial "humanitarian" phase would secure the release of 33 hostages, including:
- All women (both civilians and soldiers)
- Children
- Adults over 50
- Injured and ill captives
This phase would unfold over several weeks, with releases beginning on day one. Negotiations for a second phase, aimed at securing all remaining hostages, would commence on day 16.
Why Now? Hamas Under Pressure
Several factors have contributed to Hamas's increased flexibility:
- Internal fractures within the organization
- Extensive military operations in Lebanon
- The elimination of key leaders including Nasrallah and Sinwar
- Severe blows to the Shiite axis, including Iraqi militias
- Intense military pressure in northern Gaza
- Growing internal pressure from Gaza's civilian population
The Trump Factor
The source noted significant pressure from incoming U.S. President Trump, who is eager to secure a deal. There has been full coordination between incoming and outgoing U.S. administrations throughout the process.
Strategic Leverage
Israel maintains key leverage through:
- Strategic geographic positions
- Custody of high-value prisoners who won't be released until all hostages return
Current intelligence suggests most remaining hostages are alive, with 36 confirmed deceased.
Historical Context
The source detailed previous negotiation attempts:
- Late April: Israel made what it called a "generous offer"
- May 6: Hamas countered with a lower number (under 18) of humanitarian releases
- June 11: Hamas presented 29 amendments with no serious intent to deal
- July 3: Breakthrough began following Sinwar's elimination and setbacks to the Shiite axis
Security Arrangements
The deal includes provisions for:
- A buffer zone protecting Israel's western Negev
- Controlled movement of Gaza's population northward
- Restrictions on terrorist returns to the West Bank
- Continued Israeli presence on the Philadelphi Route during phase one
Humanitarian Considerations
The agreement will address humanitarian aid distribution, with new logistical arrangements being prepared. However, the source emphasized this remains part of a longer campaign.
Israeli officials stress they will not fully withdraw from Gaza until all hostages are returned, maintaining key strategic positions, including the Philadelphi Route, throughout the first phase.