Israel signals readiness for hostage deal with Hamas

Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, indicates a potential hostage deal with Hamas is imminent, following the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza’s southern city

Israel’s Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, signaled Monday that the time is ripe for a potential hostage deal with Hamas.

This announcement follows the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza’s primary southern city.

Amid ongoing indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Cairo regarding a Gaza truce and the prospect of a hostage exchange, Gallant conveyed his sentiment to Israeli army recruits. “I think we are at an appropriate moment,” he expressed, referring to the potential for striking a deal with the Islamist militants, six months into the conflict.

Citing the sustained pressure on Hamas and Israel’s advantageous position, Gallant stressed the importance of flexibility and freedom of action. “There will be difficult decisions, and we will be ready to pay the price to get the hostages back, and then return to fighting,” he affirmed, according to a statement released by his office.

The abduction of around 250 Israeli and foreign hostages by Hamas on Oct. 7 remains a pressing issue. While Israel’s military reports that 129 hostages are still held in Gaza, with 34 confirmed dead, families and supporters continue to rally for government intervention to secure their release.

Gallant disclosed on Sunday that the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Gaza aimed to prepare for future missions, including operations in neighboring Rafah.

This move comes amidst suspicions that Hamas fighters have sought refuge among the approximately 1.5 million Palestinians residing in the area.

Highlighting the military’s rationale for the withdrawal, Gallant emphasized the diminishing military presence of Hamas in Khan Yunis, just north of Rafah, following months of intense combat.

Source: AFP