BUTUAN CITY – An anonymous Israeli government official has confirmed to the media that significant progress has been made in ceasefire negotiations as of the moment, describing the talks as entering a critical phase.
The official emphasized that, for the first time since November 2023, Israel and Hamas are genuinely negotiating, discussing “hundreds and thousands of details.”
While a deal is close, the official stated it has not yet been finalized, revealing that 33 hostages are expected to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire, with Israel awaiting confirmation from Hamas about how many are still alive.
Negotiations are also underway for the release of nine ill or injured hostages, while discussions regarding the security of Palestinian prisoners being exchanged are ongoing.
Israel has set strict terms, including that those convicted of murder will not be released into the West Bank.
He also highlighted Israel’s security measures, including maintaining a buffer zone along Gaza’s border and preventing weapon smuggling.
He credited the weakening of Hamas allies and pressure on the group, along with the involvement of both US administrations, for creating “new possibilities” for a deal, stressing that Israel will not leave Gaza until all hostages are returned home.
