Hamas purportedly ready to release a maximum of 20 hostages in exchange for a 6-week ceasefire
- In Reports
- 10:31 AM, Apr 16, 2024
- Myind Staff
The Times of Israel, citing Channel 12 reports, has reported that in the latest development of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian militant group is now willing to release up to 20 hostages in exchange for a six-week truce.
The militant group is additionally requesting the release of Palestinian security prisoners as part of the arrangement. As per the report, the militant group has also insisted on an international guarantee in the initial stage of the agreement, ensuring that Israel ceases the ongoing conflict and withdraws IDF (Israel Defense Forces) from Gaza.
The militant group is also pressing for the repatriation of northern Gazans to their respective residences.
According to the report, an Israeli official stated that the leader of the Palestinian militant group, Yahya Sinwar, is not inclined towards reaching an agreement and instead seeks a further escalation of conflict in the region.
In the latest update, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller remarked that Israel has made notable advancements in the truce negotiations.
During a press briefing, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller labelled Hamas as the "barrier and obstacle to a ceasefire in Gaza."
He highlighted that a significant proposal involving the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Israel had been forwarded to Hamas the previous week. Miller noted that Israel had made substantial strides in presenting the proposal, suggesting a potential agreement. However, Hamas had yet to accept the deal, despite it addressing many of their purported objectives.
Miller insisted that Hamas must accept the deal and provide explanations to both the international community and the Palestinian people regarding their reluctance to do so. He underscored that Hamas currently represents the main impediment to achieving a ceasefire in Gaza.
Miller stated that the United States is presently seeking an agreement to facilitate a ceasefire lasting a minimum of six weeks and to increase humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
Image source: The Times of Israel
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