Hamas to release over 50 Israeli hostages in deal for four-day pause, Palestinian prisoners: Reports

The Hamas group has agreed to release more than 50 hostages in exchange for a four-day pause in the fighting and the release of some Palestinian prisoners, Hebrew media reported citing diplomaticsources in Israel.

The deal is focused on releasing Israeli hostages over four days, of which 40 are children and 13 women, Channel 12 reported on Tuesday (Nov 21).

An official confirmation from the Israeli government is awaited.

Deal needs to get approved by Cabinet

The temporary deal has to be approved by the Israeli Cabinet in order to go into effect the following day.

There is also a provision whereby the Israeli public can appeal the decision to release specific Palestinian prisoners in those 24 hours.

Channel 12 reported that the hostage deal will include the release of around 150 to 300 Palestinian prisoners in Israel, including female and minor prisoners.

However, it is believed that Israel will not free prisoners convicted of murder.

There is also the possibility ofHamas unilaterally releasingThai citizens, taking the total of up to 80 hostages freed, Jewish Insider reported citing a diplomatic source.

It has been further reported that Benjamin Netanyahu's government did not accept Qatar’s original terms, which included allowing Gazan civilians to return to the northern Gaza Strip. The IDF will continue fighting in the north after the break.

Over 240 hostages held captive

The Israeli-based news outlet further reported that the hostage releases might begin on Thursday or Friday, and the ceasefire could be extended to allow the release of more hostages following the initial 50 or so.

At least 240 hostages, including foreigners, are believed to be kept under captivity in Gaza Strip. They were abducted by the Palestine-based Hamas terror group during the October 7 surprise assault, which left at least 1,200 Israelis dead, following which the Israeli military launched retaliatory attacks that killed more 10,500 Palestinians.

(With inputs from agencies)

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