As discussions between mediators continue, Israel's stance raises questions about the viability of a solution to the ongoing conflict.
**Israel Insists on Full Hostage Release Amid Ceasefire Talks with Hamas**
**Israel Insists on Full Hostage Release Amid Ceasefire Talks with Hamas**
Israel's firm demand for the return of all Gaza hostages clouds prospects for a proposed ceasefire deal.
Israel has reiterated its demand for the release of all 50 hostages currently held in Gaza, significantly complicating the new 60-day ceasefire proposal from Hamas, agreed upon with the assistance of Qatar and Egypt. An Israeli official expressed skepticism regarding the acceptance of this partial deal that would involve the release of approximately half the hostages. Government spokesman David Mencer emphasized that Israel is opposed to "partial deals," shifting the focus to a broader plan for Gaza's future outlined by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to sources, the proposed arrangement would secure the release of 10 living hostages alongside the remains of 18 deceased individuals while negotiations for a lasting ceasefire continue. However, Israel's assessment indicates that only 20 of the current hostages are still alive after 22 months of conflict. The Israeli cabinet is now poised to approve military operations targeting Gaza City, currently drawing thousands of civilians fleeing intensifying bombardments.
On Monday, Hamas confirmed their acceptance of the ceasefire proposal, which aims to initially secure the return of eight living hostages and the remains of five deceased individuals. This plan mirrors the earlier proposal by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, which had not included permanent guarantees, leading to previous rejections by Hamas. An Egyptian source revealed that the mediators are still awaiting a formal response from Israel regarding the latest proposal, which, if accepted, could lead to negotiations about more comprehensive peace arrangements.
Despite internal pressure from far-right coalition partners advocating for continued military action against Hamas, many Israeli families and citizens are calling for negotiations to end the conflict and secure the release of the remaining hostages. Families of the captives are expressing frustration at the government's approach, fearing that stringent conditions may hinder the prospects for negotiation.
As fighting escalates, reports indicate a desperate humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the territory's health and sanitation systems collapsing and over 90% of homes either destroyed or damaged amidst ongoing conflict. As the situation increasingly demands urgent resolution, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties.
According to sources, the proposed arrangement would secure the release of 10 living hostages alongside the remains of 18 deceased individuals while negotiations for a lasting ceasefire continue. However, Israel's assessment indicates that only 20 of the current hostages are still alive after 22 months of conflict. The Israeli cabinet is now poised to approve military operations targeting Gaza City, currently drawing thousands of civilians fleeing intensifying bombardments.
On Monday, Hamas confirmed their acceptance of the ceasefire proposal, which aims to initially secure the return of eight living hostages and the remains of five deceased individuals. This plan mirrors the earlier proposal by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, which had not included permanent guarantees, leading to previous rejections by Hamas. An Egyptian source revealed that the mediators are still awaiting a formal response from Israel regarding the latest proposal, which, if accepted, could lead to negotiations about more comprehensive peace arrangements.
Despite internal pressure from far-right coalition partners advocating for continued military action against Hamas, many Israeli families and citizens are calling for negotiations to end the conflict and secure the release of the remaining hostages. Families of the captives are expressing frustration at the government's approach, fearing that stringent conditions may hinder the prospects for negotiation.
As fighting escalates, reports indicate a desperate humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the territory's health and sanitation systems collapsing and over 90% of homes either destroyed or damaged amidst ongoing conflict. As the situation increasingly demands urgent resolution, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties.
