Hamas Offers to Release 34 Israeli Captives Amid Ongoing Gaza Crisis

Monday 06 January 2025 - 15:00

By: Dakir Madiha

Hamas Offers to Release 34 Israeli Captives Amid Ongoing Gaza Crisis

The militant group Hamas has announced its readiness to release 34 Israeli captives as part of a potential new agreement, while the death toll in Gaza has reportedly reached 45,805. According to a leaked list published by Saudi outlet A-Sharq al-Awsat, the proposed release includes twelve women and children, eleven elderly men aged 50-86, and eleven younger men with medical conditions.

The release would occur in three phases, beginning with women, children, and those needing medical attention, followed by male captives of fighting age, and concluding with the transfer of deceased captives' remains. The deal would require Israel to release Palestinian prisoners and pause military operations in Gaza.

While diplomatic efforts intensify in Qatar, with White House Middle East coordinator Brett McGurk present and Israeli Mossad chief David Barnea expected to join, obstacles remain. Hamas insists on a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a permanent ceasefire, while Israel opposes Hamas's future role in governing the territory.

The violence continues despite negotiations. Palestinian civil defense services reported 23 deaths from Israeli strikes on Sunday, including 11 in northern Gaza. Five people were killed in a strike on the Abu Jarbou family home in the Nusseirat refugee camp.

The last successful negotiation in November 2023 resulted in 105 captives being exchanged for 240 Palestinian prisoners during a week-long truce. Of the 251 Israelis initially taken to Gaza, 96 remain, with 34 declared deceased by Israeli authorities.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, though noting it might not happen before January 20. Meanwhile, regional tensions persist, with recent exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah threatening stability along the Lebanese border.