Hamas leaders may be granted immunity for ending war
Illustrative photo (Getty Images)
Israel may grant immunity to Hamas leaders in the Gaza Strip in exchange for ending the war, reports The Times of Israel.
According to the newspaper, Israel is considering not killing Hamas leaders in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar and Muhammad Deif, if and when the opportunity arises. In particular, they could be granted a kind of immunity and deported to Qatar or another country as part of a solution that would ensure the release of all hostages held in Gaza and the end of the war against the terrorist group.
Security and political leaders are discussing this option, although no specific proposal is currently on the table.
The sources emphasize that this is a long-term option that is not relevant now. At the same time, they emphasize that any such plan should not undermine the stated goal of destroying Hamas's leadership and military capabilities.
Another source claims that "deporting the Hamas leadership abroad doesn't contradict the war goals."
The war between Israel and Hamas
On October 7, Hamas militants staged a large-scale invasion of Israel. They killed and kidnapped soldiers and civilians. In response, Israel announced the launch of Operation Iron Swords and shelled terrorist sites.
On November 24, Israel signed an agreement with Hamas on a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The militants released the first group of hostages the same day. The ceasefire lasted until December 1. Afterward, the IDF announced that the agreement was broken because Hamas shelled Israeli territory.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that international pressure would not stop Israel from continuing the war against Hamas.
On December 20, Israel offered the Palestinians a truce for a week. Tel Aviv offered to release 40 people, including women and children, as well as elderly men in need of urgent medical care. However, Hamas rejected Israel's offer to stop hostilities for one week for the exchange.
