Netanyahu Signals Gaza Ceasefire Talks May Center on Full Hostage Release

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggested Tuesday that ongoing ceasefire talks in Gaza could shift toward a comprehensive agreement. The deal would see the release of all remaining hostages in one move rather than in phases.

Mediators Egypt and Qatar are reportedly working on a proposal that includes the full release in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Hostage Deal Framework

The indirect negotiations stalled last month, but Egypt’s state-run Qahera news channel reported that a Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo Tuesday for new discussions. The group still holds 50 hostages from the October 7, 2023 attack, with Israel believing about 20 are alive.

Speaking to Israel’s i24 News, Netanyahu dismissed partial deals, saying, “I want all of them… both alive and dead.” He emphasized that Israel’s demands remain unchanged — the war will end only when all hostages are freed and Hamas surrenders.

Hamas’ Demands

Hamas insists it will only release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a permanent ceasefire, and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The group refuses to disarm, a key Israeli demand.

UN Issues Severe Starvation Warning

The United Nations warned Tuesday that starvation and malnutrition in Gaza are at their worst since the war began. The World Food Program reported that five people died in the last 24 hours due to hunger, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

Since the start of the conflict, the ministry says 121 adults and 101 children have died from malnutrition-related causes. The UN says aid entering Gaza remains far below the level needed, citing delays and restrictions imposed by Israel.

Heavy Toll of the War

The October 2023 Hamas attack killed about 1,200 people and saw 251 taken hostage. Most have since been freed in previous agreements. Israel’s military campaign has killed more than 61,400 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, with about half believed to be women and children. Israel disputes these numbers but offers no alternative count.

Israel Says Militants Posed as Aid Workers

The Israeli military said it recently targeted armed militants in Gaza disguised as aid workers. The group used a car marked with the World Central Kitchen logo. The charity confirmed the individuals and the vehicle were not affiliated with it and condemned the misuse of humanitarian markings.

Israel released video footage showing the men near the vehicle. The army said five were armed. The incident follows previous deadly strikes involving the charity, including an April attack that killed seven of its workers — an event Israel later admitted was a mistake.

SOURCE: ABC News