In a significant development toward ending the prolonged conflict between Israel and Hamas, a truce deal’s final draft was presented on Monday after a breakthrough in negotiations. As part of the agreement, Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages during the first phase, Israeli officials told our sources.
The proposal, crafted during talks in Doha involving Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Israel’s Mossad and Shin Bet leaders, marks a critical step in de-escalating tensions. Israeli sources confirmed that they anticipate most of the hostages to be alive, with the remains of deceased captives also likely to be returned during the initial 42-day ceasefire.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden underscored Washington’s push to finalize the deal, stating, “This agreement will free the hostages, halt the fighting, provide security to Israel, and allow us to significantly increase humanitarian aid for Palestinians.” Biden expressed empathy for Palestinians, acknowledging their suffering throughout the conflict.
President-elect Donald Trump also conveyed optimism, suggesting the agreement could be sealed by the week’s end. Meanwhile, U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan highlighted that negotiations were advancing positively, emphasizing that “pressure is building for Hamas to come to yes.”
Key elements of the peace proposal include Israel maintaining its presence along the Philadelphi Corridor and a buffer zone in Gaza. Northern Gaza residents would regain freedom of movement under certain security arrangements, while Palestinian detainees linked to killings would reportedly be relocated to Gaza or third countries.
The truce, if finalized, would initiate further discussions to end hostilities after its initial 16 days. Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages, the region has witnessed widespread devastation. Gaza’s health ministry reports over 46,500 Palestinian casualties from Israel’s military response.
Negotiations brokered by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt represent a concerted effort to end the violence, signaling a possible path toward peace in the region.
