A new plan has surfaced in the ongoing efforts to reach a deal between Israel and Hamas concerning both a hostage release and a temporary ceasefire. A source closely following the situation informed Kan News that negotiations have picked up pace, and a potential breakthrough could take place within the next day.
Under the terms being discussed, Hamas would free ten hostages who are still alive, all at once. In return, a ceasefire lasting roughly six to eight weeks would take effect immediately.
On the tenth day after the agreement begins, Hamas would be required to deliver a list outlining the condition of all hostages in their custody—those still alive as well as those who have died. The proposed plan also includes the release of between 200 and 250 imprisoned terrorists, although that particular aspect remains under debate.
An Israeli source commented on Saturday night about the talks currently happening in Doha, Qatar, saying, “Prime Minister [Benjamin] Netanyahu has been in continuous contact throughout the day with the negotiation team in Doha, with Minister Dermer, and with US envoy [Steve] Witkoff, in an effort to dissuade Hamas from its refusal and advance a deal for the release of our hostages. This activity is ongoing even at this hour. To exhaust every effort to secure the release of our hostages, the Prime Minister has instructed the negotiation team to remain in Doha for now.”
Earlier that same day, Defense Minister Yisroel Katz declared that in light of a new Israeli military operation underway in Gaza, the Hamas representatives stationed in Doha had decided to resume negotiations.
In the aftermath of Katz’s announcement, updates confirmed that Israel and Hamas had reentered face-to-face discussions for the first time in several months. Both sides reportedly agreed to negotiate without any preconditions in an attempt to break the long-standing deadlock.
One Hamas figure taking part in the talks confirmed that the discussions were proceeding without limitations placed in advance. However, Israeli representatives voiced concern over the media attention surrounding the talks, remarking, “Those who truly want the negotiations to succeed don’t run to tell everyone about it.”
Meanwhile, senior Hamas spokesman Taher al-Nunu cast doubt on the recent reports of progress. “We did not sense seriousness from the Israeli delegation in Doha. It is not possible to declare any positive developments on the matter, but Hamas will invest every possible effort to reach a deal and end the war,” he said.
{Matzav.com Israel}