Hamas Yields to Israeli Demands, Reviving Cease-Fire Hopes
Hamas has made significant concessions in cease-fire negotiations with Israel, raising hopes for a breakthrough in the Gaza conflict. For the first time, the group has agreed to allow Israeli forces to remain temporarily in Gaza after the fighting stops. Additionally, Hamas submitted a list of hostages—including U.S. citizens—that it is willing to release under a potential deal.
The proposed agreement, brokered by Egypt with U.S. backing, includes a 60-day cease-fire, the release of up to 30 hostages, and Israel freeing Palestinian prisoners while allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza. Despite the progress, previous negotiations have faltered, and Arab mediators caution that Hamas could still backtrack.
This shift in Hamas’s position follows months of devastating Israeli strikes and growing isolation after Hezbollah agreed to a cease-fire in Lebanon. The conflict, which began with Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel in October 2023, has claimed over 44,000 lives in Gaza, according to Palestinian health authorities.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains cautious, ongoing diplomatic efforts led by the U.S. and Egypt aim to finalize an agreement. If successful, hostages could be freed shortly after the deal is signed, marking a crucial step toward ending the violence.