Qatar Offers Prisoner Exchange Deal, Israeli Media Claims
Qatar Offers Prisoner Exchange with Hamas in Exchange for Gaza Ceasefire
According to reports from Channel 12 Television and Yediot Ahronot Newspaper, Qatar has submitted an offer to Hamas for a prisoner exchange in exchange for a ceasefire in Gaza. The first phase of the offer entails the release of 40 to 50 prisoners held by Hamas in exchange for a one-month pause in the fighting. The second phase, which is expected to be more complex, is speculated to involve the withdrawal of the Israeli army from Gaza.
An unnamed official confirmed the details of Qatar’s offer, stating that Hamas is prepared to release 40 to 50 Israeli prisoners, including women, adults, and patients, in exchange for a 20 to 30-day cessation of hostilities and the release of Palestinian prisoners. The official claimed to be delivering a message from Qatar to Israel.
Mossad Chief David Barnea reportedly informed the Israeli War Cabinet about Qatar’s message. However, it is worth noting that Hamas has previously insisted on a complete cessation of attacks in Gaza in order to finalize a prisoner exchange agreement with Israel.
As of now, there has been no statement from Qatar regarding the allegations made in the Israeli press. The details of the potential exchange and ceasefire agreement are still being clarified.
