Hamas has expressed willingness to release all 59 remaining hostages in Gaza in exchange for a permanent ceasefire with Israel, according to Palestinian officials. The group indicated it would free the hostages if Israel agrees to withdraw all its forces from Gaza.
However, the proposal’s acceptance is uncertain, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously rejected any deal that doesn’t involve Hamas’ complete defeat, including its demilitarization and removal from Gaza. Although Hamas had initially insisted on sticking to the original US-brokered ceasefire agreement from January, it now seems open to a temporary ceasefire as a possible solution, acknowledging the dire situation in Gaza.
Hamas has also expressed willingness to release more hostages for a temporary truce, although Israel has rejected their offer, demanding the release of more hostages and the bodies of deceased captives. The peace talks remain stalled, with Hamas insisting on a permanent ceasefire and refusing to disarm without a solution to Palestinian statehood. Meanwhile, Israel is preparing to further divide Gaza as part of its military strategy. This comes amid growing pressure from Palestinian civilians on Hamas to end the conflict and free the hostages, while Gaza faces a worsening humanitarian crisis.
