Talks between Israel and Hamas toward a hostage release deal have gained significant traction, an Israeli government official said on Monday evening. Recent negotiations have focused on bridging gaps, particularly regarding the deployment of Israeli forces along the Philadelphi and Netzarim corridors during a ceasefire. Reuters reported that an Israeli delegation has traveled to Doha to continue the dialogue.
"The Philadelphi and Netzarim routes are no longer an obstacle; Hamas has shown flexibility on these matters," Defense Minister Israel Katz said during a Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee session. Reports suggest that Israel has also softened its stance on certain conditions. Currently, negotiators are working to establish an inspection mechanism for civilians moving northward—a system that Hamas previously rejected.
Progress has also been made concerning the number of hostages to be released in the first phase. The group is expected to include adults over 50, those with illnesses and individuals classified as "humanitarian cases," in exchange for a six-week ceasefire.
