Hamas Slashes Number of Hostages for Ceasefire Deal, Israeli Source Reports

Hamas Slashes Number of Hostages in Proposed Ceasefire Deal, Israeli Source Says

April 16, 2024

Reported by Jeremy Diamond in Tel Aviv

Hamas has dramatically reduced the number of hostages it is willing to release in the initial phase of the proposed ceasefire deal, according to a source in Israel familiar with the ongoing negotiations.

Hamas’ Counterproposal

In its latest counterproposal, Hamas has offered to release fewer than 20 hostages if a six-week ceasefire is implemented, effectively reducing the previous number of 40 hostages that had been under negotiation for months. This notable development marks a significant setback in the talks.

Focus on a Subset of Hostages

A senior Biden administration official has corroborated that Hamas intends to limit its release to approximately 20 hostages during the first phase of a potential agreement. Hamas has conveyed to mediators that it only has around 20 remaining hostages, specifically women or sick, wounded, and elderly men.

Prisoner Release and Life Sentences

In addition to reducing hostage numbers, Hamas has called for the release of more Palestinian prisoners in exchange for a smaller group of hostages. Moreover, they are requesting a higher number of prisoners serving life sentences.

Undermining Negotiations

According to the Israeli source, this recent Hamas counterproposal indicates that Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas in Gaza, has no intention of reaching a deal. Sinwar appears to exploit the divisions between the US and Israel concerning Israeli military operations in Gaza, as well as the domestic pressure faced by the Israeli government.

Hamas Responds

Responding to the reports, Hamas spokesperson Basem Naim claimed that the group proposed a gradual release of three captured Israelis each week but noted that no specific numbers have been discussed yet.

Additional Demands

Apart from the prisoner exchange, Hamas is continuing to demand assurances regarding a lasting ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and unfettered access for Palestinians to return to northern Gaza.

“I think part of this is Hamas thinks they’re winning. Because their definition of success is survival and they’ve survived so far. The longer the conflict has gone on, the more recalcitrant Hamas has become rather than the other way around.” – Biden Official