Gaza Hostage Release
What is Israel's political reaction to Hamas's ceasefire proposal?
While there has been no official Israeli response to Hamas's ceasefire proposal, the idea is unpopular within Israeli political circles, especially among the right wing. The proposal, which would end the war while leaving Hamas in power both militarily and politically in Gaza, contradicts Prime Minister Netanyahu's stated objective. Netanyahu has repeatedly emphasized that Israel is committed to achieving the absolute destruction of Hamas in both military and political aspects. This stance complicates negotiations as the current Israeli government appears unwilling to accept any agreement that would allow Hamas to maintain control in Gaza after the conflict ends.
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Al Jazeera English
03:56 - 04:17
What is Hamas's position on the Gaza ceasefire deal, and who else is pushing for the agreement?
Hamas is adamant about being committed to the ceasefire deal and wanting to see it through to completion. They are joined in this position by family members of Israeli captives and former captives, who are actively advocating for the deal both in the Israeli parliament and at protests. These families are pushing for the agreement to be seen all the way through, emphasizing that finalizing the deal is the only viable path to ensure the release of remaining captives held in Gaza. Their advocacy underscores the urgency and human dimension of the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
Watch clip answer (00:18m)Al Jazeera English
04:39 - 04:57
What is Hamas proposing for phase two of the Gaza ceasefire agreement?
Hamas has outlined a vision for phase two of the Gaza ceasefire agreement that involves releasing all remaining Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and detainees in a single comprehensive swap. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qasem emphasized that this exchange would need to occur within specific parameters - namely, reaching an agreement that leads to a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. This proposal represents a significant shift toward resolving the hostage situation in one coordinated action rather than through incremental releases, positioning the prisoner exchange as part of broader conditions for ending the conflict in Gaza.
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Al Jazeera English
00:00 - 00:28
What is Hamas planning to release as part of the ceasefire negotiations?
Hamas has announced it will release the bodies of four Israeli captives on Thursday, followed by six more captives who are still alive on Saturday. This move is positioned as a demonstration of flexibility and commitment to the proposed ceasefire agreement. The group is framing this release as a gesture of goodwill in the ongoing negotiations, while simultaneously calling on Israel to reciprocate with similar actions. This development represents a significant step in the complex peace process, potentially moving both parties closer to a broader prisoner exchange agreement.
Watch clip answer (00:14m)Al Jazeera English
00:28 - 00:43
What is different about Hamas's new proposal for releasing Israeli captives?
Hamas's new proposal differs from previous approaches by suggesting a one-time release of all Israeli captives rather than the current phased approach being implemented in phase one. This comprehensive plan would involve releasing all captives simultaneously in exchange for two major concessions: a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and an immediate end to the war. This represents a strategic shift from the incremental releases that have been occurring over several weeks. The proposal aims for a more definitive resolution to the conflict, with Hamas seeking a permanent ceasefire as part of the exchange agreement.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)Al Jazeera English
03:39 - 03:56
When will captives be released according to the Gaza ceasefire agreement?
According to the ceasefire plan, on Saturday the 22nd, six living Israeli captives will be released as part of the agreement. The deal will continue through March 1st (the following Saturday), which marks the last day of phase one, when the remaining four bodies of deceased captives will be transferred to Israel. This phased approach addresses both the return of living hostages and the sensitive transfer of remains, providing a timeline for families awaiting the return of their loved ones.
Watch clip answer (00:15m)Al Jazeera English
06:28 - 06:44