Hamas makes shocking offer: All Israeli hostages to be freed at once?

Hamas has announced that it is prepared to release all remaining Israeli hostages in a single swap during the second phase of the ongoing Gaza ceasefire deal. Senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu confirmed that the group had informed mediators of its willingness to conduct a one-time exchange, departing from the phased releases witnessed in the first stage of the truce.

This announcement marks a significant shift in the hostage release negotiations, as Hamas had previously adhered to a staged approach in releasing captives. However, al-Nunu did not provide details on whether the militant group would also return the bodies of deceased hostages, which were slated for transfer in a separate phase of the agreement.

What Does the Second Phase of the Gaza Ceasefire Deal Involve?

The second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal is expected to bring an end to active hostilities and involve the complete withdrawal of Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) troops from the Gaza Strip. This phase is critical in shaping the region’s post-war governance, as discussions continue over who will administer Gaza after the conflict.

The Israeli government has insisted that any long-term truce must include the “complete demilitarisation” of Gaza, effectively calling for the removal of Hamas and other armed factions from power. However, Hamas continues to assert its control over the territory and has made its latest hostage release proposal contingent upon Israeli concessions.

Will Israel Accept Hamas’ New Hostage Release Proposal?

Israeli officials have not yet issued a formal response to Hamas’ proposal for a single-stage Hamas prisoner exchange, but negotiations are expected to intensify in the coming days. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated that talks, mediated by Qatar, would begin this week, focusing on securing the safe return of all hostages.

Israel has repeatedly emphasized that it will not accept a ceasefire agreement that allows Hamas to retain control over Gaza. However, the prospect of securing the release of all remaining hostages could create significant diplomatic pressure to reach a compromise.

IDF Prepares to Receive Bodies of Slain Israeli Hostages

While negotiations continue over the fate of the remaining living captives, the IDF has confirmed that Hamas is preparing to transfer the bodies of four slain Israeli hostages. The remains of Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, along with another unnamed individual, will be handed over to the Red Cross before being transferred to Israeli forces.

Upon receiving the bodies, the IDF will hold a brief military ceremony, draping the coffins in Israeli flags before transporting them to a secure location. The IDF has also announced that an investigation will be launched to determine the exact cause of death, as Hamas’ claims regarding the circumstances remain unverified.

Who Are the Hostages Set for Release in the Coming Days?

In addition to the transfer of the slain hostages, Hamas has confirmed that it will release six living captives on Saturday. The individuals set for release include Tal Shoham, Omer Shem-Tov, Eliya Cohen, Omer Wenkert, Avera Mengistu, and Hisham al-Sayed.

These hostages are expected to be handed over in a process similar to previous exchanges, coordinated through mediators to ensure a smooth transfer. The upcoming release underscores the ongoing complexity of the hostage release negotiations, as Hamas and Israel continue to seek terms acceptable to both sides.

How Is Qatar Shaping the Future of Gaza?

As ceasefire negotiations continue, Qatar has reaffirmed its stance that only Palestinians should determine Gaza’s political future. In a statement, Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed al-Ansari emphasized that governance decisions should not be dictated by external forces, pushing back against Israel’s insistence on Hamas’ removal and the United States’ proposal for an international administration of Gaza.

“This is a Palestinian question on what happens post this conflict,” Ansari stated, highlighting that decisions regarding leadership and governance must be left to Palestinian political groups.

Qatar has played a key role in brokering the Gaza ceasefire deal, acting as a mediator between Hamas and Israel. However, the country’s position on post-war governance aligns more closely with regional allies, who oppose Israeli control over Gaza.

Is Humanitarian Aid Being Used as a Bargaining Tool?

While negotiations over hostage exchanges and ceasefire conditions continue, humanitarian organizations have raised concerns over restrictions on aid deliveries to Gaza. Hamas has accused Israel of preventing the entry of prefabricated structures and heavy machinery needed to clear debris and rebuild essential infrastructure.

Qatar’s Majed al-Ansari also condemned the limitations on humanitarian aid, describing the situation as dire. “The aid that enters the Gaza Strip today is insufficient,” he stated, adding that using humanitarian assistance as leverage in hostage release negotiations was a violation of international law.

The ongoing first phase of the ceasefire, set to expire on March 1, has so far resulted in the release of 19 Israeli hostages in exchange for over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners. Additional exchanges are expected before the first phase concludes, but humanitarian groups warn that Gaza’s civilian population remains in urgent need of increased aid.

What Comes Next for the Gaza Ceasefire Agreement?

As the ceasefire agreement progresses, the second phase of negotiations is expected to determine whether Hamas’ proposal for a single-stage Hamas prisoner exchange will be accepted. The outcome will likely depend on Israel’s willingness to agree to Hamas’ terms, including a complete troop withdrawal from Gaza.

International mediators, including Qatar and Egypt, are working to secure an agreement that ensures the safe return of all hostages while addressing long-term security concerns. However, tensions remain high, with both sides holding firm on their political and military objectives.

The ceasefire’s future will also be influenced by broader geopolitical factors, including the United States’ involvement in shaping post-war governance and Arab nations’ response to Israeli military operations. As discussions continue, the region’s stability hangs in the balance, with the fate of hostages, prisoners, and civilians at the heart of ongoing negotiations.