ANKARA: Israel has reportedly put forward a new proposal for a prisoner exchange deal to mediator Qatar through the United States, according to reports from Israel’s Channel 13. The proposed deal involves a phased approach, with the first phase entailing Israel’s withdrawal of troops from densely populated areas of the Gaza Strip and an increased allowance of aid into the enclave.
In the second phase, it is suggested that Hamas would release female Israeli captives, including soldiers and the bodies of deceased Israelis, while Israel further retreats from specified areas, with the details to be mediated by Qatar and the United States.
Hamas Rejects Israel’s Prisoner Exchange Deal Proposal
However, the reports indicate that Hamas has thus far rejected the proposal, citing the absence of a full ceasefire during the hostage exchange.
During the temporary one-week truce from November 24 to December 1, Hamas released 105 hostages, but 129 hostages are reported to remain in captivity. Israeli authorities believe that among the remaining hostages. Thousands of Palestinians are held in Israeli jails without trials and access to legal counsel.
The conflict between Hamas and Israel has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 21,320 Palestinians killed, mostly women and children, and 53,688 Palestinians injured since the outbreak of hostilities.
