Truce Agreement in Sight: Hamas Leader Haniyeh Raises Hope for Release of Palestinian Prisoners and Hostages

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has expressed optimism that a truce agreement with Israel is on the horizon, raising hopes for the release of Palestinian prisoners and hostages. The announcement comes after the October 7 attacks, where Hamas seized an estimated 240 hostages, primarily Israeli civilians. So far, only a small number of hostages have been released by Hamas.

Haniyeh stated that they are close to reaching a deal on a truce, according to a statement from his office. Sources from Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad confirmed that their groups have agreed to the terms of a truce deal. However, Israel has not responded immediately regarding the negotiation efforts to secure the release of the hostages.

The tentative agreement includes a five-day truce, consisting of a ceasefire on the ground and limitations on Israeli air operations over southern Gaza. The Israeli bombardment has caused the deaths of over 13,300 people, mostly civilians.

As part of the deal, between 50 and 100 Israeli civilian and foreign hostages would be released, while no military personnel would be included. In return, approximately 300 Palestinians, including women and children, would be released from Israeli jails.

US President Joe Biden expressed his belief that a deal was close on Monday. Hopes for talks have been growing, with Qatar playing a crucial role as a mediator. Qatar is home to Hamas’s political office and has diplomatic links with Israel behind the scenes. The International Committee of the Red Cross also confirmed that its president had traveled to Qatar to meet with Haniyeh.

The potential truce agreement brings some optimism for a resolution to the conflict and the release of the hostages. However, the situation remains delicate, and it is crucial for all parties involved to work towards a peaceful and lasting solution for the benefit of both Palestinians and Israelis.