Israel and Hamas are reportedly nearing an agreement on a hostage and ceasefire deal, which could be finalized soon, according to diplomatic sources on Monday.
The proposed deal, still subject to change, includes the release of 33 hostages in the first phase, alongside a phased withdrawal of IDF forces from Gaza. However, the IDF would maintain a security perimeter, with some forces remaining in place initially.
Israel’s senior delegation, including Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar and Mossad Director David Barnea, remains in Doha, potentially until the deal is finalized. Meanwhile, Hamas representatives described the ongoing ceasefire talks as progressing positively after meeting with Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Negotiations for subsequent phases, aimed at releasing all hostages and completing IDF withdrawals, are expected to begin on the 16th day of the ceasefire. Diplomatic sources estimate the first phase could last 42 days, though no definitive timeline has been set. All 33 hostages included in the initial release are believed to be alive, despite one previously being confirmed deceased.
A cabinet vote and a ruling from the High Court of Justice are required to finalize the deal. If approved, the first hostages could be released swiftly. The agreement outlines a retained security perimeter by Israel, including the full Gaza Strip, and the withdrawal of IDF troops from the Netzarim corridor. Security protocols will be in place for those returning to northern Gaza.
The deal also includes an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, excluding members of the Nukhba forces involved in the October 7 massacre. Some prisoners with life sentences will be released but will not return to the West Bank. The number of prisoners released depends on the number of hostages confirmed alive.
Public protests in Jerusalem have called for a broader deal to secure the release of all hostages, citing concerns about the phased approach. Diplomatic sources highlighted that this deal offers a higher number of hostages and security provisions compared to prior proposals. Pressure from the U.S. and other geopolitical factors influenced Hamas’s stance, making negotiations more viable.
The agreement, brokered partly by Mohammed Sinwar, brother of Yahya Sinwar, signals a potential breakthrough in negotiations compared to previous efforts.
