Qatar has put forward a new offer to Israel proposing a two-month truce, during which eight living hostages would be freed on the very first day, and an additional two would be released on the 50th day of the ceasefire.
According to two diplomats familiar with the proposal, the deal outlines a 60-day pause in fighting. On day one, eight living captives would be released, followed by two more on day 50 of the truce period.
Kan News provided further details, reporting that the plan also includes the phased return of the remains of 18 hostages who are confirmed dead. The plan would unfold in three stages. As part of the broader outline, the IDF would withdraw from the Morag axis, and the level of humanitarian assistance allowed into Gaza would be expanded significantly.
Those close to the ongoing talks suggest that the chances of reaching a deal have improved, though some disagreements between the involved parties have yet to be resolved.
Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu has been conducting several rounds of high-level security meetings in recent days, with a strong focus on the hostages. Families of those still in captivity have voiced fears that during the conflict with Iran, their loved ones would be pushed off the national agenda and that efforts to secure their return might stall.
Negotiations had been largely frozen for several weeks, with no notable movement. But recently, President Donald Trump has shared a more hopeful tone, indicating that a breakthrough could be imminent. Earlier today, he said, “There may be a ceasefire next week.”
There are currently 50 hostages believed to still be in Gaza. Of those, roughly 20 are thought to be alive.
{Matzav.com}