Key Developments in Israel-Hamas Prisoner Exchange Talks: Insights from Paris Negotiations
Watan-Hebrew media reported that the War Council discussed details of the proposed prisoner exchange deal on Monday evening, following what were described as “constructive” talks in Paris involving Qatar, the United States, Egypt, and Israel.
The reports indicated that the War Council meeting took place after the return of Mossad chief David Barnea from the Paris meeting, and now an official response from Hamas to the proposed deal is awaited.
Progress in Negotiations
John Kirby, the coordinator of strategic communications at the U.S. National Security Council, stated that the negotiations for the release of detainees in Gaza were constructive, adding that there is a framework to reach a new agreement between Hamas and Israel.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken mentioned discussing ongoing talks for the release of prisoners and reaching a broader ceasefire with Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman.
Israeli War Council
The Israeli War Council discussed details of the proposed prisoner exchange deal, and it was emphasized that the offered deal regarding prisoners in Gaza is strong and convincing, with significant agreement between the parties. Success in the efforts on this front is anticipated.
Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman confirmed progress in the negotiations for a deal between Israel and Hamas, emphasizing that it is the only opportunity available to calm the situation.
He also stressed that Qatar does not have influence over any party regarding the ongoing negotiations for a prisoner exchange.
The Deal’s Details
The Israeli Broadcasting Authority quoted an Israeli political source saying that the talks addressed a plan for the release of Israeli prisoners in stages. The parties discussed a ceasefire for approximately two months in exchange for the release of about 100 Israeli prisoners, with Israel releasing a significant number of Palestinian prisoners.
U.S. Involvement in Negotiations
CIA Director William Burns and U.S. Middle East Envoy Brett McGurk participated in a series of negotiations in recent days on the exchange of prisoners and reaching a ceasefire in Gaza.
Prisoner Exchange Contingent on Ceasefire
Hamas reiterated that the exchange of prisoners is contingent on a ceasefire in Gaza and the withdrawal of the occupation from the sector before any agreement is reached.
Reuters quoted Sami Abu Zuhri, head of the political department of Hamas abroad, stating that the success of the Paris meeting depends on the extent of the occupation’s response to a comprehensive cessation of aggression on Gaza.
Taher al-Nono, media advisor to the head of the political office of Hamas, told French media that there must first be a comprehensive and complete ceasefire, not just a temporary truce. After the cessation of hostilities, other details, including the release of Israeli prisoners, can be discussed.
