Details of permanent cease-fire, hostage swap in Gaza emerge
A Palestinian man looks at a ravaged neighbourhood from a destroyed apartment in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip on Thursday. (Photo via AFP/Getty Images)
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a permanent cease-fire and prisoner exchange have reached a critical stage, Anadolu Agency reported, citing security sources. A draft agreement is reportedly nearing completion, although it has not yet been finalized.
‘One Israeli hostage for every 12 Palestinian prisoner’
The talks have centered on the terms for the exchange, with Hamas reportedly agreeing to release one Israeli hostage for every 12 Palestinian prisoners freed by Israel.
The Israeli government is negotiating the release of prisoners who are serving sentences of less than 30 years, while seeking to retain discretion over those serving longer terms, including prominent figures like Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti.
Hamas is believed to be holding approximately 120 Israeli hostages, with other militant groups in Gaza also reportedly holding captives. The negotiations have been described as complex and delicate.
Leadership, negotiation challenges
Despite recent progress, the negotiations have faced challenges. Sources indicate that while Hamas has shown a constructive attitude during the intensified talks over the past two and a half months, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance has contributed to delays in reaching a final agreement.
Türkiye’s involvement in the negotiations has been noted as significant, playing a key role in advancing the discussions. However, Netanyahu’s cautious approach has been a factor in the slower pace of the process, sources say.
Hamas leadership transition
Complicating the talks further is the leadership transition within Hamas. Following the assassination of Hamas Political Bureau Chief Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, Yahya Sinwar has taken over leadership from Gaza. Sinwar’s location in Gaza could extend the timeline for decisionmaking, as his approval on negotiation points may take longer to secure.
The negotiations, supported by international efforts from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, are expected to conclude in the coming days, potentially leading to a permanent cease-fire in Gaza.
