A breakthrough in negotiations has led to a truce deal draft being presented to Israel and Hamas, with reports suggesting Hamas may release 33 hostages in the first phase. The deal, mediated by Qatar in Doha, involves senior officials from Israel, including Mossad and Shin Bet chiefs, and the Qatari prime minister, according to CNN.
Key Details:
- Hostage Release: Israel believes most of the 33 hostages are alive, though the mortal remains of any deceased hostages are also expected to be included.
- Implementation: Israel has expressed readiness to implement the truce immediately after signing.
- US Efforts: Outgoing President Joe Biden emphasized Washington’s push to finalize the agreement, aiming to halt hostilities, ensure Israeli security, and boost humanitarian aid to Palestinians. President-elect Donald Trump stated that the deal could be finalized by the week’s end.
Provisions of the Peace Proposal:
- Philadelphi Corridor Control: Israeli forces will retain their presence along the Egypt-Gaza border.
- Buffer Zone in Gaza: Israel will maintain a buffer zone along its border, with northern Gaza residents allowed to return home under unspecified security arrangements.
- Prisoner Release Conditions: Palestinian detainees convicted of killing Israelis will not be returned to the West Bank but relocated to Gaza or abroad after agreements with foreign nations.
Background:
The truce follows Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attacks on Israel, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken. Israel’s subsequent military response has led to over 46,000 reported Palestinian deaths in Gaza, as per the Palestinian health ministry.
Negotiation Updates:
- A final discussion in Doha is set to finalize remaining matters.
- Qadura Fares, head of the Palestinian Commission for Detainees, is advising mediators on detainee lists.
The agreement’s implementation on day 16 will initiate further negotiations aimed at ending the conflict.
