Gaza and hostages' future at stake after death of 24 Israeli soldiers, US clarifies where the deal has reached
A potential breakthrough in Gaza: Israel and Hamas are exploring a deal to exchange hostages for Palestinian prisoners, with a proposed month-long ceasefire contingent on meeting terms and conditions. However, the framework faces obstacles over disagreements on how to permanently end the Gaza war. Mediation efforts involving Qatar, the US, and Egypt are underway. The proposal outlines a two-month ceasefire, during which Hamas would release hostages in stages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. There's a possibility of key Hamas leaders, like Yahya Sinwar, relocating to other countries. Despite progress, Hamas rejected the proposal, seeking a "package deal" with a permanent ceasefire. Sources suggest Hamas refuses to proceed until conditions for a permanent ceasefire are settled. Israel prefers negotiating one stage at a time, and communication occurs through intermediaries, maintaining a sensitive situation with both sides holding firm on their positions.