Egyptian report: Hamas asking for extra compensation to free 11 male hostages in 1st phase of deal

Unnamed sources tell Egypt’s Al-Ghad outlet that Israel has requested the inclusion of 11 men on the list of hostages to be released in the first phase of a potential hostage-ceasefire deal, with Hamas apparently demanding further compensation in return for setting them free.

According to the report, the first phase of the potential deal between Israel and Hamas will see 250 Palestinian prisoners released from Israeli prisons in exchange for the children held in Gaza, the five female soldiers, and the older and sick captives.

While not specifically mentioned by the report, it is assumed that the first round of releases will also include the female hostages who are not serving in the military.

According to the report, Israel has requested the release of 34 hostages in the first phase, including 11 considered by Hamas to be soldiers. The terror group classifies all Israeli men of fighting age to be soldiers.

However, Al-Ghad says Hamas has agreed for the 11 to be included in the first phase in return for “special consideration” in the deal, implying that Palestinian prisoners who also do not fit the agreed-upon categories could be released.

The outlet says other areas under discussion include the reopening of the Rafah Border Crossing between Gaza and Egypt, the potential withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Netzarim Corridor, and the return of Gazan civilians to the north of the Strip without conditions, but with the inspection of vehicles. No further details are given.

Additionally, the report says talks are being held on a gradual Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long vowed that the IDF will remain on the route.

Source » timesofisrael.com