Arab Mediators: Hamas Consents to Israeli Military Presence in Gaza

Hamas agrees to Israeli military presence in Gaza after ceasefire, accepts hostages-for-prisoners deal

In a significant development, Hamas has reportedly agreed to key Israeli demands, marking a shift in its stance amid ongoing conflict. According to Arab mediators, the group has conceded to allowing Israeli military presence in parts of Gaza after a ceasefire and has provided details about hostages held in captivity.

Ceasefire Negotiations Underway
The breakthrough comes as indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel, mediated by Egypt and Qatar with U.S. support, have gained momentum. Egypt recently floated a new ceasefire proposal, which has the backing of the United States. The proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire, during which hostages would be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners.

Arab mediators revealed that Hamas has accepted two critical demands by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. First, Hamas has agreed to Israeli military control over the Philadelphi Corridor, along the Egypt-Gaza border, and the Netzarim Corridor, which divides Gaza into two sections. This would enable Israel to monitor displaced Palestinians returning to northern Gaza. Second, Hamas has agreed to relinquish control of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.

Hostage Details Provided
For the first time, Hamas has reportedly provided a list of hostages, including U.S. citizens, it is willing to release as part of the agreement. During the October 7 attack, Hamas abducted 251 individuals. So far, around 100 hostages have been freed through ceasefires and rescue missions, while an estimated 100 remain in Gaza, with a third believed to be deceased.

Ceasefire Proposal Highlights
The proposed ceasefire would see the release of hostages categorized as humanitarian cases, including women, children, and the elderly, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, Israel has committed to increasing humanitarian aid to Gaza once hostages are freed. Mediators express hope that the ceasefire could create conditions that prevent a return to full-scale war.

This evolving situation has drawn international attention, as mediators push for the first batch of hostages to be released in the coming days.

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