An American official said in a briefing held overnight (Wednesday to Thursday) that the terrorist organization Hamas is making tougher demands in the negotiations for the release of hostages, including the release of a larger number of murderers. Additionally, the official stressed that the disagreement over the Philadelphi Route is not the only issue on the table.
“Hamas is putting forth problematic issues that differ from what was discussed a few months ago,” said the official, though he added that, in his view, “this is not a significant obstacle.” However, he expressed doubt regarding Hamas’ willingness to reach a deal, despite the fact that 90% of the deal’s details have been agreed upon. According to him, the deal consists of 18 clauses, with 14 of them agreed upon.
“Sometimes you’ll hear Hamas say they agreed to the deal on July 2, but that refers to 14 clauses,” clarified the official. “One clause involves a very technical amendment, and three other clauses relate to the exchange of prisoners. Even Hamas’ own text from July 2 explicitly says that further negotiations are required. So essentially, 90%, including Hamas’ part, has been agreed upon.”
According to the official, negotiations are progressing, and discussions are now focused on the most difficult issues, which do not always come up in public discourse. Regarding the new mediation proposal, the official said the Americans are seeking a framework that everyone will accept, especially after the murder of six hostages, which increased the urgency of the negotiations to rescue as many remaining hostages as possible. Speaking of Hamas’ despicable act of murder, he added, “This cast doubt on Hamas’ willingness to make any deal at all.”
The U.S. continues to apply pressure for the release of the hostages, with the new proposal reportedly considering increasing pressure on Netanyahu and demanding a “dramatic reduction” of IDF forces in the Philadelphi Route, one of the key issues in the negotiations where no agreement has yet been reached.
In a statement to the foreign press yesterday, Prime Minister Netanyahu said, “I am ready to make a deal; I have already made one. I am determined to bring the hostages back and will do everything I can to achieve this. Leaving the Philadelphi Route does not advance the deal.” He also emphasized, “The people of Israel are exceptionally united, and [Hamas] knows they are hearing that.”
