Hamas
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.
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Al Jazeera English
04:39 - 04:57
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
What breakthrough was announced in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations?
Hamas announced it will release the remains of four Israeli captives ahead of the agreed timeline as part of a breakthrough in Gaza ceasefire talks. Among the remains to be released are those of Shiri Bibas and her two children, Ariel and Kfir. This development represents a bittersweet breakthrough, as it confirms the deaths of these captives while potentially advancing peace negotiations. The announcement comes as part of broader efforts to facilitate progress in ceasefire discussions, with Israel also expected to release Palestinian prisoners in return.
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Al Jazeera English
00:00 - 00:16
What strategy is Hamas employing in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations?
Hamas is demonstrating flexibility by releasing four Israeli captives' remains ahead of schedule, hoping this will help mediators pressure Israel to fulfill its obligations in the ceasefire agreement. Specifically, Hamas aims to ensure Israel allows mobile homes, tents, and heavy equipment into Gaza as part of humanitarian aid commitments. Meanwhile, families of Israeli captives continue to apply pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to finalize a deal that would secure the release of all remaining captives. This strategic move by Hamas attempts to position Israel as the party failing to comply with agreed terms, potentially strengthening Hamas's negotiating position.
Watch clip answer (00:25m)Al Jazeera English
01:29 - 01:54
Who is leading phase two of the Gaza ceasefire negotiations?
Israel has appointed Ron Dermer to lead negotiations for phase two of the Gaza ceasefire. Dermer, who serves as the minister of strategic affairs, is a confidant of Prime Minister Netanyahu, positioning him as a trusted figure to represent Israeli interests in these critical talks. The negotiations are currently behind schedule, creating urgency for mediators who are working to ensure Israel doesn't resume hostilities before a deal can be finalized. This appointment comes at a crucial moment when maintaining momentum in the peace process is essential for regional stability.
Watch clip answer (00:19m)Al Jazeera English
01:54 - 02:14
Who were the Israeli captives held by Hamas and when were they captured?
Hamas captured two Israeli captives, Avira Mengestu and Hisham al Sayed, after they crossed into Gaza. Mengestu was captured in 2014 while al Sayed was taken in 2015. Both were detained after they infiltrated the Gaza borders. Their release appears to be part of current ceasefire negotiations, which also involves an exchange of Palestinian prisoners. Among those scheduled for release are 47 Palestinians who were previously exchanged for Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit in 2011 but were re-detained by Israel in 2014.
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Al Jazeera English
01:03 - 01:28