Hamas and Israel Move Closer to Hostage Deal: Report

A significant development has emerged in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with reports suggesting that a hostage deal between Hamas and Israel could be signed by the end of this week. A Hamas official told Saudi news outlet Asharq Al-Awsat that the deal is "imminent," with key points already agreed upon.

According to the report, the first phase of the agreement would involve the release of approximately 30 hostages—both alive and deceased—by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This stage would last around 45-60 days. In addition, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops are expected to withdraw from Gaza cities, though they will remain in strategic areas, including the Philadelphi and Netazrim corridors along the border with Egypt.

The deal also includes provisions for Palestinian women and children to return to northern Gaza, a move that aims to ease some of the humanitarian concerns in the region.

A recent shift in Hamas’ stance was reported, with officials stating that the group had abandoned its previous demands for an end to the war and Israeli troop withdrawal as part of the hostage deal. This change in position comes as public opinion within Hamas reportedly calls for an end to the war.

Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, echoed these reports, noting that the hostage deal is closer than ever to being finalized. However, some officials within Hamas have warned that the agreement could still face hurdles, particularly if Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu obstructs the deal.