Hamas and Israel have reached a new agreement concerning the release of Palestinian prisoners, Hamas announced on Tuesday. The prisoners are set to be released simultaneously with the bodies of Israeli hostages as part of the first stage of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
A delegation from Hamas concluded a visit to Cairo, where they met with Egyptian officials to discuss the implementation of the ceasefire, the exchange of prisoners, and the prospects for the second phase of negotiations. The Hamas leadership emphasized its commitment to fully adhere to all provisions and stages of the agreement.
Meanwhile, Israel announced on Sunday that it has postponed the release of Palestinian detainees who were originally scheduled to be freed on Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that the release would be delayed until more hostages are secured, avoiding what it termed \"disgraceful ceremonies.\" Initially, Israel planned to release over 600 Palestinian detainees following the release of six Hamas hostages earlier that day.
On Tuesday, Israeli officials revealed that they are considering an extension of the 42-day truce in Gaza to facilitate the return of the remaining 63 hostages. However, discussions about the future of the enclave have been postponed for the time being.
The initial phase of the ceasefire deal, which commenced on January 19 with the support of the United States and mediation from Egypt and Qatar, is set to end on Saturday. The future of the agreement remains uncertain as negotiations continue.
Hamas official Basem Naim stated that progress cannot be achieved while prisoners remain detained but reiterated Hamas’s commitment to a permanent ceasefire and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The deal includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails, as well as the withdrawal of Israeli troops from certain positions in Gaza. Despite facing several challenges, the agreement has so far resulted in the release of 29 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian detainees. The bodies of four additional hostages are still expected to be handed over on Thursday.
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Hamas says solution reached over release of Palestinian prisoners
cgtn.com
