Features of a new deal between Hamas and Israel revealed
Media reports have revealed the conditions set by the Hamas movement for the release of its hostages, indicating the outlines of a new deal looming on the horizon between the two sides.
According to the Israeli newspaper (Maariv) and Channel 12 yesterday, Hamas’s demands for a deal, leading to the release of Israeli prisoners, include several key points: a complete cessation of hostilities, the withdrawal of the Israeli army from the Gaza Strip, international guarantees to maintain Hamas‘s rule in the region, and non-prosecution of Hamas leaders. (Maariv) explained that a deal involving the release of hostages in this manner could cause a significant shakeup within Israel, both for the government and the country as a whole. Israeli Minister of Political and Security Affairs, Gideon Sa’ar, stated during the “Shishi-Tarbut” conference, “Of course, we will not agree because we must return to living in the region,” referring to the conditions set by Hamas.
No statement has been issued by Hamas or the mediators regarding the possible conditions of an agreement to release the detainees.
Earlier yesterday, the American newspaper (The New York Times) published interviews with four senior Israeli army officials who stated that achieving Israel’s declared war goals—releasing hostages and destroying Hamas—is currently impossible. The officers revealed that “the long battle aimed at destroying Hamas will likely cost the lives of hostages” and added that “the return of hostages is possible through diplomatic, not military, means.” These statements align with remarks made by Minister of War Cabinet Affairs Gadi Eisenkot, who said that the ultimate goal in his view is the return of the hostages, but he clarified that the only way to achieve this is through a deal.
Gadi Eisenkot said, “It is impossible to bring back the captives alive in the near future without a deal.”
On the other hand, Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi affirmed that the movement would not discuss any proposals for prisoner exchange deals with Israel without a complete ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. He stated to the Arab World News Agency last Tuesday, “Proposals from mediators are ongoing, but we will not discuss any proposal that does not include a complete ceasefire, and we will not deviate from our position.” He added, “No negotiations before a ceasefire and withdrawal, and then we will consider any proposal.”
