Netanyahu Hopes for Gaza Hostage Release in Coming Days

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he hopes to announce a deal for the release of all hostages from Gaza in the coming days. Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas are ongoing in Egypt, mediated by the United States. This development follows a notable reduction in Israeli military strikes across Gaza.

According to reports from the Associated Press, Israel has shifted to a defensive posture in the territory. A senior Israeli official confirmed the military has been instructed to prepare for the first phase of a new U.S. plan to end the war.

Key Elements of the Proposed Agreement

The proposed deal, backed by widespread international support, outlines a clear sequence of events. Hamas would release the remaining hostages within a three-day period. In return, Israel would halt its offensive and withdraw from significant parts of Gaza.

The plan also requires Hamas to disarm and relinquish political power. Israel would reciprocate by releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. A major influx of humanitarian aid and eventual reconstruction would follow.

Hamas Response and Regional Reactions

Hamas has issued a statement accepting some elements of the U.S. proposal. The group expressed willingness to release hostages and transfer power to other Palestinian factions. However, its statement did not explicitly address the critical demand for disarmament.

Analysts note this “yes, but” approach repackages old demands. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another major militant group, has now aligned with Hamas’s position. Arab mediators are reportedly preparing for broader Palestinian unity talks regarding Gaza’s future.

The potential for a comprehensive Gaza hostage release deal represents the most significant progress in months. All parties are now under immense pressure to finalize an agreement that would end the devastating conflict.

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What is the current status of the hostage situation?

Hamas is believed to be holding 48 hostages from its October 7th attack. Approximately 20 of these individuals are thought to be alive, according to assessments cited by the Associated Press.

What has the U.S. role been in these negotiations?

President Trump unveiled the current ceasefire proposal and has applied significant pressure on Israel to engage. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is heading to Egypt to lead the American negotiating team in the talks.

Has the fighting in Gaza completely stopped?

Bombing has “significantly subsided” but not ceased entirely. A hospital official in Gaza City reported that Israeli strikes killed at least five Palestinians on Saturday, despite the reduced intensity.

What are the main obstacles to a final deal?

The primary hurdle remains Hamas’s willingness to fully disarm and relinquish power. Israel has stated it will resume its offensive if the militant group does not lay down its arms as part of any agreement.

How are Palestinians in Gaza reacting?

Residents have expressed exhaustion and cautious hope. Many are calling for a tangible truce on the ground, fearing that the talks could break down like previous negotiation attempts.