Palestinian Prisoners
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
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
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
What efforts are being made to secure the release of Israeli captives from Hamas?
Families of Israeli captives are maintaining pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate a comprehensive deal that would bring home all remaining captives. In response, Israel is taking concrete steps by dispatching Ron Dermer, Netanyahu's confidant and Minister of Strategic Affairs, to lead negotiations on phase two of the ceasefire agreement. These negotiations appear to involve potential prisoner exchanges as part of a broader effort to secure the captives' release while addressing ceasefire conditions. The involvement of a high-ranking official like Dermer underscores the strategic importance Israel is placing on these sensitive talks.
Watch clip answer (00:20m)Al Jazeera English
01:44 - 02:04