Hamas Agrees to Release 10 Hostages as Netanyahu Signals Optimism for Gaza Truce
Hamas agreed to release 10 hostages as Netanyahu signaled optimism for a Gaza truce. Mediators push for a deal, but key issues like a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal remain unresolved.
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Hamas announced Wednesday its agreement to release ten hostages held in Gaza, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced optimism about reaching a ceasefire deal amid ongoing indirect negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
This latest development came as Gaza endures its 21st month under devastating Israeli bombardment and a crippling blockade, resulting in mounting civilian casualties and a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Hostage Release and Stalled Talks
In a statement, Hamas confirmed its acceptance of an offer to release ten captives, noting that “despite the difficulty of negotiations due to the intransigence of the occupation,” it continues to work seriously and positively with mediators to overcome existing obstacles.
Hamas reiterated that key issues remain under discussion, including the flow of humanitarian aid, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and the need for solid guarantees of a permanent ceasefire.
Of the 251 individuals taken hostage during the October 7, 2023 attack, Israel says 49 remain in Gaza, with 27 presumed dead.
Optimism in Washington
Netanyahu, who is currently in the United States, expressed optimism following two days of meetings with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington. Speaking to Fox News, the Israeli leader said, “Yes, I believe we’re getting close to an agreement. I think there is a good chance we’ll get there.”
Trump has reportedly been pressuring Netanyahu to reach a ceasefire, presenting it as a potential diplomatic breakthrough in the region.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar echoed similar sentiments at a press conference in Bratislava, stating, “Israel is serious about a hostage-exchange and ceasefire deal. If a temporary truce is reached, we will negotiate a permanent ceasefire.”
Military Perspective and U.S. Mediation
Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi indicated that conditions are favorable for a hostage deal, citing significant military gains. “We’ve inflicted heavy losses on Hamas’ leadership and capabilities. The time is ripe for an agreement to release hostages,” he stated in a televised address.
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope that a deal could be finalized “by the end of the week,” potentially including a 60-day truce and the release of both living and deceased hostages. Qatar, however, noted that negotiations “still need time.”
The proposed deal reportedly includes the release of ten living hostages and the remains of nine others.
As diplomatic efforts intensify, the reality on the ground remains dire. Despite ongoing discussions, no major breakthrough has yet been achieved in the current round of indirect negotiations taking place in Doha.
Israel maintains its position that it will retain “permanent” security control over Gaza, while Hamas insists on a full Israeli withdrawal and a durable ceasefire, alongside the resumption of humanitarian operations under UN oversight.
