Israeli media reports ‘unprecedented progress' in Gaza cease-fire, prisoner swap talks

By Abdelraouf Arnaout

JERUSALEM (AA) – Israeli media on Monday reported "unprecedented progress" in indirect negotiations aimed at brokering a Gaza cease-fire and prisoner swap deal with Hamas.

"The negotiations for a prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas see unprecedented progress,” the Israeli public broadcaster KAN said, citing high-level sources.

The sources said the deal requires “major concessions” from Israel, including a comprehensive cease-fire.

"The potential agreement may keep some of the hostages in captivity for a long time, unless Israel agrees to make major concessions, including a comprehensive cease-fire," the sources added.

Israeli officials said that this week is “crucial” for reaching a deal, as Hamas is expected to give its response to a recent proposal presented to the group.

According to Israel Hayom newspaper, the number of Israeli captives to be released remains a major sticking point between Israel and Hamas.

There was no immediate comment from Hamas on the Israeli media report.

Mediation efforts led by the US, Egypt, and Qatar to reach a cease-fire and a prisoner swap agreement between Israel and Hamas have failed due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to halt the ongoing conflict.

Israel has continued a genocidal war on the Gaza Strip that has killed nearly 45,000 people, the majority of whom are women and children, since a Hamas attack on Oct. 7, 2023.

Last month, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.

Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in Gaza.

*Writing by Ahmed Asmar