Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shared his anticipation of announcing the release of hostages held in Gaza in the immediate future, within the “coming days.” In a public statement, he affirmed Israel’s commitment to disarming Hamas and demilitarizing Gaza, stating this will be achieved through either a peaceful or forceful approach.
These remarks follow Hamas’ statement on Friday, where the group expressed agreement to the release of hostages as part of a US-proposed peace plan. However, Hamas did not explicitly commit to disarmament, indicating a desire for further negotiations on other aspects of the proposal. On Saturday, Hamas called for international pressure on Israel, citing ongoing “massacres” after recent strikes in Gaza.
Ceasefire talks, mediated indirectly, are scheduled to commence in Egypt on Monday.
U.S. President Donald Trump conveyed a strong stance, stating he would not tolerate any delays from Hamas in finalizing a deal. He urged swift action, emphasizing the need for a rapid resolution. Trump also indicated Israel’s acceptance of initial troop withdrawal lines, which are part of the U.S.-led peace initiative.
The proposed 20-point plan outlines an immediate cessation of hostilities and the release of 20 living Israeli hostages, along with the remains of deceased captives, in exchange for a substantial number of Palestinian detainees in Gaza.
Internally, both in Gaza and Israel, there is a palpable sense of cautious optimism regarding the potential for a deal. The direct involvement of President Trump is seen as a significant factor, potentially influencing the outcome and his legacy as a peacemaker.
Despite Trump’s public appeals and veiled threats of increased military action, the fundamental obstacles to a resolution persist. Hamas continues to demand a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and guarantees against the resumption of hostilities once the hostages are freed.
Concerns also linger about political motivations, with accusations that certain Israeli leadership figures may be prolonging the conflict. The Prime Minister is reportedly supported by ultranationalist ministers, who have threatened to leave the governing coalition if Hamas is not completely defeated, potentially destabilizing the government.
Public opinion in Israel, according to polls, generally favors a deal that secures the hostages’ release and ends the war. The nation is reportedly divided and weary from the prolonged conflict, facing increasing international isolation.
While there is significant momentum towards a potential agreement, its finalization remains uncertain. Families of hostages have expressed their hopes for their loved ones’ safe return, with one mother describing a mix of expectation and fear that the situation could still falter.
Palestinian residents in Gaza have shown a range of reactions, from hopeful anticipation to deep-seated suspicion, fearing that any agreement could be a precursor to further conflict. One resident voiced caution, suggesting that negotiations over the finer points could prolong the process.
Meanwhile, Israeli military operations in Gaza have continued, seemingly undeterred by Trump’s public appeals for a halt to bombing. Early Saturday morning, airstrikes in Gaza City reportedly resulted in casualties and injuries, according to local medical sources.
The Israeli military’s campaign in Gaza was initiated in response to the Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant loss of life and numerous hostages taken.
Estimates from Gaza’s health ministry, run by Hamas, indicate that over 66,000 people have been killed in Israeli actions since the conflict began. The majority of Gaza’s population has been displaced multiple times, with substantial damage or destruction reported for most homes.