Hamas has agreed to release five Israeli hostages in exchange for a temporary ceasefire during the Eid al-Fitr holiday, according to Egyptian officials cited by the Qatari New Arab news outlet.
“The ball is now in the Israeli government and Americans’ court,” the officials stated, highlighting the intensive involvement of the United States and Qatar in the ongoing negotiations.
The proposed ceasefire would last approximately 50 days. In addition to the release of the five hostages, Hamas is also demanding the release of Palestinian prisoners. The agreement includes provisions for aid delivery, ensuring food, medical supplies, and other essential items reach Gaza.
Among those expected to be freed is US-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander.
The truce is set to coincide with Eid al-Fitr, which begins on Sunday, March 31, and ends on Wednesday, April 3. However, it remains unclear whether the Israeli government will accept the terms of the proposal.
This development comes amid stalled negotiations and increasing international pressure to secure the release of hostages taken during Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
