Israeli officials have revealed that two parallel efforts are currently underway in negotiations with Hamas to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. This comes amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the militant group. The primary efforts involve Egypt and Israeli intelligence agencies as they explore potential ceasefire agreements and the release of hostages, which have been a sticking point for months.
The first effort, led by Egypt’s General Intelligence Service, was proposed during a meeting in Cairo between Egypt’s new intelligence chief, Hassan Rashad, and Shin Bet Director Ronen Bar. Egypt has suggested a “small” deal that would involve the release of a limited number of hostages in exchange for a brief ceasefire in Gaza. This deal is intended to lay the groundwork for more extensive negotiations that could eventually lead to a broader ceasefire agreement and the release of all hostages. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant expressed support for the Egyptian initiative, while more hardline ministers, such as Itamar Ben Gvir and Betzalel Smotrich, opposed the proposal.
A second, more expansive plan has been put forward by Mossad Director David Barnea. This broader proposal aims to end both the war in Gaza and the expanding Israeli Defense Forces campaign against Hezbollah in Lebanon. In return, it would secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas. This proposal was discussed during a six-hour Israeli security cabinet meeting on Sunday. Despite the killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, Israeli officials noted that Hamas’s demands have not shifted significantly, although some speculate that new leadership could change the dynamic in future negotiations.
The U.S. has also been involved in pushing for progress, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken set to visit Israel and other Middle Eastern countries this week. American officials view the death of Sinwar as a potential turning point for negotiations, with Blinken expected to press for a ceasefire and the release of hostages during his meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Meanwhile, the Israeli security cabinet has been addressing other pressing matters, including a possible retaliatory strike on Iran following a ballistic missile attack on October 1. The cabinet did not vote on the timing of the strike, but discussions indicate that a significant response is expected. Additionally, humanitarian aid to Gaza was a key topic, with U.S. officials warning of potential disruptions to arms transfers if more aid is not allowed into the region.
Expanded Coverage:
