Hamas Rejects Israel’s Offer to End War in Exchange for Hostage Release, Sinwar’s Safe Passage, and Gaza’s Disarmament
Israel has proposed a deal to end the conflict in Gaza, offering safe passage for Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and other civilians in exchange for the immediate release of all hostages and the disarmament of the Gaza Strip. The plan, presented by Gal Hirsch, Israel’s envoy for the hostages, was recently discussed with US officials, who are expected to pass it on to Arab mediators.
The proposal would see Hamas relinquishing control of Gaza, and Israel halting its military operations in the region. Hostage families have voiced strong support for the plan, calling it a way to ensure the safe return of all captives. However, the deal would also likely face resistance from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s hard-right allies, as it would allow Sinwar to walk free.
The movement has already rejected the proposal. Politburo member Ghazi Hamad called it “ridiculous” and said it highlights Israel’s failure in negotiations. Hamas appears committed to retaining its hold on Gaza.
The proposal marks a shift in strategy for Netanyahu, who had previously vowed to continue fighting until Hamas was fully dismantled. However, the plan could ease both domestic and international pressure on Israel, allowing the country to focus on the growing threat from Hezbollah in the north.
Hamas currently holds 101 hostages, and the offer would see all of them released at once. In return, Israel would release an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners. While the exact details remain unclear, the offer presents a potential path to end the months-long war.
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid, after talks with US officials, acknowledged that there is a growing consensus to find a way out of the conflict. However, Hamas insists that any deal must come without significant concessions from their side, leading to a stalemate as negotiations continue.
As tensions rise along Israel’s northern border with Hezbollah, the timing of this proposal reflects Israel’s need to redirect military resources. Despite ongoing attacks from Hezbollah, both sides have thus far avoided escalating the conflict into full-scale war.
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