Politics

Hamas Proposes Full Captive Release for Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza

Wednesday 19 February 2025 - 10:38

Hamas has put forward a proposal to release all remaining captives in the Gaza Strip in a single exchange, contingent on a permanent ceasefire and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the enclave.

In a statement on Wednesday, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem detailed the group’s stance on the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing their readiness to execute the release if it ensures a lasting truce and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops.

The group also firmly rejected Israel’s demands for its disarmament and removal from Gaza. Qassem dismissed these conditions as psychological tactics and reiterated that Hamas would not agree to lay down its arms or leave the territory.

Additionally, Hamas has decided to double the number of captives to be released in the next exchange, increasing the figure from three to six. This decision, according to senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya, was made in response to requests from mediators and as a demonstration of their commitment to fulfilling the agreement’s terms.

The proposal follows international pressure, including remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump criticizing the phased release strategy. Families of captives held in Gaza have also urged for their simultaneous release.

Meanwhile, Israel has continued to impose strict border controls, blocking essential supplies and reconstruction materials from entering Gaza. Hamas previously warned it might delay the release of captives due to Israel’s refusal to allow the entry of mobile homes and construction equipment—elements considered part of the agreement.

The humanitarian toll of the conflict remains severe. The Gaza Ministry of Health reports 48,291 Palestinian deaths and over 111,722 wounded, while the Government Media Office estimates the total fatalities to exceed 61,709, including those still trapped under rubble. The World Bank, the United Nations, and the European Union estimate that rebuilding Gaza could cost approximately $53.2 billion, with $15.2 billion needed for housing alone.

According to Al Jazeera’s senior political analyst Marwan Bishara, the biggest challenge lies ahead in the second and third phases of the ceasefire deal. He pointed out that while Israel maintains military superiority, it has struggled to eliminate Hamas entirely.

The ceasefire, which took effect on January 19 after 460 days of conflict, has been repeatedly violated by Israel. Discussions within Israel’s leadership suggest the possibility of a return to full-scale hostilities, with far-right elements in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet advocating for a military occupation of Gaza.

Since the truce, Israel has released 1,135 Palestinian prisoners and plans to free 502 more this week. In return, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad have released 25 captives since January 19.