Trump to Visit Israel Amid Expectations of Hostage Releases and Peace Talks
Donald Trump is planning to travel to Israel amid heightened anticipation over the release of hostages, as the country prepares for significant developments in this regard.
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Hostage Releases
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Hamas Rejects Hostage Releases Until End of Israel-Gaza War
Hamas, the group controlling the Gaza Strip, has stated that there will be no more hostage releases until Israel agrees to a "full cessation of aggression." Israel claims to have killed over 2,000 Hamas fighters since a truce earlier this month, during which more than 100 hostages were freed. Efforts are underway at the United Nations to pass a resolution on the ongoing conflict, but the US has expressed concerns. The fighting continues, with Israel bombarding Gaza and Hamas firing rockets at Tel Aviv. The week-long truce allowed for increased aid flow into Gaza, but negotiations for a new truce have not yet yielded an agreement. Hamas' statement puts pressure on Israel to end the war, but the Israeli government is reluctant to do so until it feels it has significantly degraded Hamas' capabilities.
Hostage Releases and Emotional Reunions: Israel-Hamas War Update
During the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a total of 105 hostages were released from Hamas captivity, including 81 Israeli women and children, one Russian-Israeli man, and 24 foreign nationals. The releases brought both tears of joy for the reunions and grief for the murdered family members. However, approximately 130 people taken hostage during the Hamas attacks in October are still believed to be in captivity. Israel released over 230 Palestinian security prisoners in exchange for the hostages, facilitated the transfer of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and halted military operations in the enclave.
Qatar Emerges as Key Mediator for Hostage Releases and Truce Extensions
C.I.A. Director William J. Burns arrived in Qatar for negotiations aimed at securing the release of more hostages held in Gaza. Burns, along with David Barnea, the head of Israel's Mossad, met with officials from Qatar and Egypt, who have been mediating talks between Israel and Hamas. The discussions are focused on expanding the hostage releases and potentially extending the temporary pause in fighting into a more permanent ceasefire. The negotiations come after an initial deal was reached between Hamas and Israel, resulting in the release of several hostages. Burns, known for his diplomatic experience in the Middle East, has been chosen to represent the United States in the talks.
"Secret Talks in Qatar: CIA Director and Mossad Chief Negotiate Hostage Releases Amid Israel-Hamas War"
Ten Israeli hostages have been released by Hamas, leaving 163 hostages still in Gaza, as efforts are made to extend the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. CIA Director William Burns is in Qatar for talks on releasing more hostages, while Secretary of State Antony Blinken plans to visit the region. The war with Hamas is expected to cost Israel approximately $53 billion between 2023 and 2025.
"Biden's Warning: Challenges Ahead as Hostages Released in Israel-Hamas Deal"
President Joe Biden hailed the initial release of two dozen women and children by Hamas as a sign of progress in the Israel-Hamas deal, but warned of the challenges ahead in securing the release of the remaining hostages, including American citizens. While more details about the next round of hostages are expected to be unveiled soon, it remains unclear if Americans are included. The deal involves the release of 50 hostages for 150 Palestinian prisoners, and the arrival of aid trucks in Gaza. Biden emphasized the trauma suffered by the hostages and expressed the need for healing. He also faces political challenges in securing aid for Israel and addressing calls for a cease-fire from progressive Democrats.
Qatar Urges Hamas to Release Civilians, Say Diplomats and Sources
Qatari mediators are urging Hamas to accelerate the release of hostages, including women and children, without expecting Israeli concessions, as Israel prepares for a ground assault on Gaza. Qatar, in coordination with the US, is leading mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials regarding the release of over 200 hostages captured in Hamas' cross-border attack on October 7. The talks do not cover captive Israeli soldiers, as Hamas views them as strategic assets for future concessions from Israel. Qatar is discussing a larger release of civilians with Hamas and Israel, arguing that it would ease a logistical burden for the militant group.
Qatar Urges Hamas to Release Civilians in Hostage Negotiations
Qatar, in coordination with the US, is leading mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials to secure the release of over 200 hostages, including women and children, held by Hamas in Gaza. The talks aim to expedite the release of civilians without expecting Israeli concessions. Israel is preparing for a ground assault on Gaza, and Qatar is urging Hamas to release a large group of hostages to ease the logistical burden on the militant group. The release of civilians could also have diplomatic benefits for Hamas, showing sensitivity to international humanitarian concerns. However, the fate of Israeli soldiers held by Hamas is not part of the negotiations.