Jerusalem –
Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages in the first phase of a ceasefire agreement being finalized in Doha, two Israeli officials said. Israel believes most of the hostages are alive, but the bodies of dead hostages will also be among those released in the initial 42-day ceasefire. Hamas and its allies still hold 94 hostages, at least 34 of whom are dead, according to the Israeli government.
A final round of negotiations is set to take place in Doha on Tuesday to finalize any outstanding issues. Some of the hostages’ families have been invited to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The release of the 33 hostages would be the first phase of the deal, with further negotiations to end the war beginning 16 days later. If the deal materializes, Israeli forces will maintain a presence along the Philadelphi Corridor, a narrow strip of land along the Gaza-Egypt border, and establish a buffer zone inside Gaza along the border with Israel.
Palestinian prisoners responsible for killing Israelis will not be released to the West Bank, but will instead be sent to the Gaza Strip or abroad under agreements with foreign countries.
US President Joe Biden expressed optimism about the deal, saying it would free hostages, halt fighting, provide security for Israel, and allow for significant humanitarian assistance to Palestinians.
