New developments in Gaza hostage rescue deal

SGGPO 11/22/2023 08:30

On November 22, according to CNN news agency, Israel, Hamas and the US are close to an agreement to rescue hostages being held in the Gaza Strip.

Images of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Photo: Times of Israel

The agreement is expected to include a four- to five-day ceasefire, with Hamas releasing 50 Israeli and foreign hostages in exchange for the release of about 150 Palestinians held by the Israeli government. The 50 hostages will not include military personnel. According to the Israeli government, Hamas has been holding about 240 hostages since the conflict broke out on October 7.

The agreement comes after weeks of intense negotiations between Israel, Hamas and the United States, with Qatar acting as the main mediator. Qatar handed over a draft hostage agreement to Israel on November 21. The United States and Qatar have previously spoken optimistically about the progress of the negotiations. Speaking at the White House, President Biden said: “We are very close now. We may be able to bring some hostages home soon.”

The Israeli cabinet has been convened to consider the agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked the government to support the agreement. If approved by the cabinet, Israel will announce information about the Palestinian prisoners who will be released.

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