Hamas and Israel reportedly at odds over new hostage deal
Illustrative photo (Photo: Getty Images)
Hamas and Israel hold vastly different positions regarding a new hostage release deal, reports The Times of Israel.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a new hostage release deal are "very difficult" as Hamas is making unreasonable demands that Israel will find hard to accept.
Reports citing high-ranking officials suggest that efforts to reach an agreement are unlikely to bear fruit in the near future.
It's emphasized that Hamas wants Israel to withdraw all its troops from the Gaza Strip.
Israel's war with Hamas
Hamas militants invaded Israel on October 7. Terrorists started killing and abducting both military and civilian individuals. Jerusalem soon declared Operation Iron Swords and shelled terrorist locations in the Gaza Strip.
On November 24, a temporary ceasefire between Jerusalem and the militants began for the release of prisoners, mediated by Qatar. By December 1, Israel claims that military actions were resumed due to a breach of the ceasefire terms by Hamas.
On December 20, Israel proposed Palestinians to agree to another ceasefire for a week. However, Hamas rejected the offer.
