Hamas announced on Tuesday that “serious and positive talks” are underway aimed at reaching a deal with Israel to conclude the ongoing war in Gaza and secure the release of remaining hostages.
Officials from various countries involved in the negotiations indicate that both parties may be close to establishing a truce following the conflict that escalated after Hamas's attacks on October 7, 2022. This potential agreement would mark the first pause in hostilities since a weeklong cease-fire in November 2023, which allowed for the release of 105 hostages.
Despite months of negotiations filled with rising hopes and subsequent setbacks, the current discussions have seen both sides largely refrain from disclosing details to the media, suggesting a more serious approach to reaching an accord.
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, mediators have proposed an initial cease-fire lasting 60 days, during which Hamas would release some of the approximately 100 hostages still in Gaza in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. Qatari and Egyptian mediators, along with U.S. officials, are optimistic that this initial truce could lead to a permanent cease-fire.
Israel has insisted that its military forces maintain a presence in two key areas of Gaza: the Netzarim corridor, which divides the northern and southern regions, and the Philadelphi corridor along the Egypt border. Hamas, which previously demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, is now reportedly willing to accept a prolonged Israeli presence in these areas, provided that a full withdrawal occurs eventually.
The protracted conflict has persisted due to a deadlock between the two sides. Israeli leaders, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have committed to eradicating Hamas following the October 7 attacks, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths in Israel. Conversely, Hamas has stated it will not release additional hostages unless Israel agrees to a full military withdrawal and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. to broker a three-phase agreement have repeatedly faltered. Critics of Netanyahu assert that he prioritizes political survival over the fate of hostages, as his coalition relies on far-right parties opposed to a cease-fire.
In recent months, conditions in the Middle East have shifted, creating what some officials describe as a more favorable atmosphere for negotiations. President-elect Donald J. Trump has publicly warned of severe consequences if hostages are not released by his inauguration on January 20, which has intensified the urgency of the discussions.
U.S. officials suggest that Israel has achieved nearly all it can through military action, and there are growing concerns among Israeli families regarding the well-being of remaining hostages. Meanwhile, Hamas faces increased isolation and significant losses among its leadership, which may prompt a willingness to compromise.
Hezbollah, Hamas's ally, had previously vowed to continue its attacks on Israel until the conflict in Gaza concluded. However, following significant losses, Hezbollah has consented to a separate peace, indicating a shift in regional dynamics.
Hamas's aspirations for a broader regional conflict alongside other Iran-backed militias appear to be diminishing, as U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken noted that the anticipated support from allies is not forthcoming.