Israel considers ending Gaza conflict as part of hostage agreement, even without complete elimination of Hamas: report

Israel is considering a groundbreaking move to end the war in Gaza as part of a hostage deal, even if Hamas is not completely eradicated, officials revealed. This new proposal marks a significant shift in Israel’s approach to the conflict that has been ongoing for nearly seven months.

The cease-fire proposal aims to secure the release of over 130 hostages still held in Gaza in exchange for discussions on restoring sustainable calm in the Palestinian enclave. This marks the first time Israel has indicated a willingness to end the conflict through a hostage deal without completely eliminating the Palestinian terror group, as previously demanded by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The proposed deal, crafted with Egyptian mediators, involves the release of 20 hostages in exchange for approximately 500 Palestinian prisoners over a three-week truce period. Priority would be given to the release of female, sick, and elderly hostages. Following the initial exchange, a 10-week cease-fire would allow for further negotiations between the two sides.

The proposal also includes provisions for displaced Palestinians to return to their homes in northern Gaza, many of which have been damaged or destroyed during the conflict. As the tense negotiations continue, Hamas is expected to deliver its response to mediators in Cairo on Monday.

The pressure is mounting on Netanyahu to reach a deal with the terrorist group, with protests for the immediate release of hostages ongoing in Tel Aviv. The situation remains fluid as Egypt warns of “catastrophic consequences” if the Israeli military moves into the densely populated city of Rafah, where four Hamas battalions are stationed.