Israel-Hamas conflict: Israel and Hamas in talks for release of Gaza hostages; check details

Tel Aviv (Israel), November 11: Israel and Hamas are currently involved in discussions regarding two proposals for the release of hostages in Gaza. One proposal involves a small number of individuals, while the other entails the release of 100 or more civilians held by Hamas, according to officials.

Israeli sources report over 240 hostages in Gaza, with nearly half being civilians. The first proposal suggests releasing 10 to 20 civilian hostages, including Israeli women and children, as well as foreigners, in exchange for a temporary cessation of hostilities by Israel. Subsequently, a larger release of approximately 100 civilians could occur if both parties agree.

However, Hamas has refused to release military-age Israeli men held in Gaza. In return for releasing all civilians, Hamas is requesting a brief pause, along with increased humanitarian aid, fuel for hospitals, and the release of women and children from Israeli prisons. The Israeli authorities express uncertainty about releasing their prisoners.

Qatar, along with senior US officials, is mediating the talks, and US officials support the proposal for Israel to pause its attacks for a hostage release, facilitating humanitarian aid and the departure of the hostages. The Israeli Prime Minister's office refrains from commenting on the matter. A complicating factor is Hamas's claim that it holds 20 or fewer civilians, while other groups in Gaza hold the rest, which has not been independently verified. Recent evidence contradicts Hamas's assertion that its actions on October 7 targeted only military outposts, as civilian attacks occurred.

Hamas contends holding 130 to 140 Israeli military personnel without immediate plans for their release, although Israeli officials have not provided details on military versus civilian hostages. Israeli and US officials remain skeptical of Hamas's claims regarding the number of civilians held in Gaza.