Senior Israeli sources spoke with security officials in Arab states in recent days, warning that if negotiations for a hostage deal fail, Israel will operate in Rafah even before Ramadan ends, according to a report this evening (Saturday) by Kann 11’s Itay Blumenthal.
“There is no progress in negotiations”
Yesterday, Prime Minister Netanyahu announced that he approved the army’s plans for a ground maneuver in Rafah, including plans for evacuating the population. Hamas’ response to a deal including 40 hostages being exchanged for 950 security prisoners was made public.
According to the report, Hamas demanded 50 prisoners for every female soldier, including those considered “heavies.” The organization also demanded that the IDF withdraw from the Netzarim corridor bisecting the Gaza Strip and allow a complete return of residents to the northern Strip. In addition, Hamas demanded the publication of the names of the murderers to be freed. In the next stage, in exchange for the soldiers and bodies, Hamas demands the end of the war and the rebuilding of the Gaza Strip.”
Israeli sources responded by saying they “went too far by every possible parameter.” According to the sources: “There’s no progress aside from the very submitting of an answer. Hamas is making it very hard to convene to make decisions and really negotiate. Israel is preparing for every possibility including expanding the war.”
Despite Hamas’ response, the Israeli delegation is not setting out to Qatari capital Doha tomorrow in order to discuss the deal outline due to the non-convening of the cabinet tonight. Despite the criticism, the Prime Minister declared that the war and security cabinets will only be convened tomorrow.