WASHINGTON: U.S. negotiators are reportedly making strides toward a potential agreement that could lead to a two-month pause in Israeli military operations against Hamas in Gaza. According to two senior administration officials who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the negotiations, the deal involves the release of over 100 hostages captured in the October 7 attack on Israel.
The emerging terms of the agreement are expected to unfold in two phases. In the initial phase, a cessation of hostilities would facilitate the release of remaining hostages, including women, elderly individuals, and those who are wounded, by Hamas.
Subsequently, during the first 30 days of the pause, Israel and Hamas would work on details for the second phase, focusing on the release of Israeli soldiers and civilian men. The proposed deal also includes provisions for increased humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza.
While the agreement would not mark the end of the conflict, U.S. officials are optimistic that it could lay the groundwork for a lasting resolution to the hostilities. The New York Times initially reported progress towards a ceasefire agreement in exchange for the release of hostages.
CIA Director Bill Burns is expected to discuss the evolving agreement during a meeting in France on Sunday with David Barnea, the head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel. The talks will be centered on the ongoing hostage negotiations.
President Joe Biden, in recent phone calls with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, emphasized the centrality of a hostage deal to establish a prolonged humanitarian pause in the fighting. The urgency of the situation was highlighted, and the leaders welcomed close cooperation among their teams to advance discussions.
CIA Director Burns’ discussions in France follow White House senior adviser Brett McGurk’s recent trip to the Middle East for talks on the hostage situation. If progress is observed in the talks in France, Biden is anticipated to send McGurk back to the region promptly to finalize an agreement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has committed to continuing the offensive until complete victory over Hamas is achieved. The families of many hostages have increased pressure on Netanyahu, demanding a deal for the release of their loved ones. The October 7 attack resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties in Israel, with around 250 people abducted by Hamas and other militants.
An initial ceasefire in November led to the release of around 100 hostages in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Approximately 130 hostages remain captive, though some have been confirmed dead. Hamas has previously linked the release of more captives to an end to the war and the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners.