Israel open to discussing comprehensive prisoner release deal: Local media

By Zein Khalil

TEL AVIV (AA) - Israel is willing to consider the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for a comprehensive deal that includes the freeing of many of the captives being held by Hamas in Gaza, Israeli Channel 13 reported Wednesday.

The channel, citing Israeli officials, said that “in light of Qatar and the United States' attempts to negotiate smaller agreements leading to a cease-fire, Israel is ready and willing to explore the release of security prisoners in exchange for a broader deal that encompasses the release of numerous captives.”

Quoting a high-ranking Israeli official, it said “there are many options on the table, but nothing concrete at the moment.”

“In response to the numerous reports of progress in the talks this evening, senior Israeli officials claim that there have been multiple communications on various fronts. However, in Israel, they are unaware of any significant progress,” the channel noted.

Earlier on Wednesday during a meeting with leaders of West Bank settlements, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that “I want to set aside all kinds of empty rumors we hear from various directions.”

“I will reiterate one clear point; there will be no cease-fire without the release of the hostages. Everything else holds no meaning," he added.

*Writing by Rania Abu Shamala