Amid indications of an opportunity for a hostage deal, the pro-Qatari news outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed reported yesterday (Wednesday) that a new Egyptian proposal is on the table. The initial framework suggests a phased deal, with the first phase lasting one and a half to two months. It includes the gradual release of living hostages, likely in smaller numbers than before, in exchange for prisoners based on a new formula to be negotiated. The proposal also involves transferring control of the Rafah Crossing to the Palestinian Authority.
A Temporary Compromise
In addition, Egypt proposes significantly increasing the supply of humanitarian aid, allowing around 350 trucks per day to enter Gaza. Along the Philadelphi Route and Netzarim Corridor, Egypt suggests a renewed deployment of IDF forces.
The new Egyptian proposal could lead to a temporary compromise under which Israel would not be required to declare an end to the war but would begin a gradual withdrawal of its forces. If conditions mature for negotiations based on this framework, a security delegation led by Shin Bet Chief Ronen Bar is expected to depart for Cairo as early as next week, according to the Qatari report.
Hamas’ agreement to transfer control of the Rafah Crossing to the Palestinian Authority, along with its willingness to forgo its fundamental demand for a complete withdrawal of IDF forces from Gaza, signals the organization’s potential readiness to begin negotiations for a deal. Similar indications began emerging following the ceasefire agreement declared in Lebanon, after two months of significant escalation on the northern border that dealt a severe blow to Hezbollah.
