YnetNews.com reports: “Hamas has reportedly responded positively to a new mediators’ proposal that narrows the gaps that caused a negotiation breakdown nearly a month ago, according to diplomatic sources. Based on U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff’s framework, with slight adjustments, the offer could pave the way for a partial hostage deal.
With Hamas’s response in hand, the focus now shifts to Israel on Tuesday. An Arab diplomatic source described the plan as ‘Witkoff Plus,’ suggesting that Israeli agreement could lead to talks in Doha or Cairo, potentially involving Witkoff himself to finalize the deal.
Three and a half weeks ago, Hamas demanded the release of 200 terrorists serving life sentences in Israeli prisons, while Israel offered 125. The terror group has now lowered its request to 140-150, leaving a gap of just 25. Hamas also softened its stance on the buffer zone, agreeing to a perimeter of 800-1,000 meters (2,625-3,281 feet) compared to Israel’s 1,000-1,200 meters (3,281-3,937 feet).
Egyptian sources told Saudi outlet Al-Arabiya that ‘the security situation doesn’t allow releasing all living hostages at once,’ adding that Israel must respond by week’s end. Mediators have invited Israel’s negotiation team, and a meeting with Israeli security officials is imminent, though Hamas will not participate in future Gaza security roles…”
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