It seems that this time it's it, the negotiations for a deal are advancing, the ceasefire agreement signed with Hezbollah is prompting Hamas to reach the same exact place.
However, this morning (Wednesday), it was reported in 'Maariv' that Hamas made an unusual demand to Israel. According to the report, a French official involved in the negotiations said, "I think that's it – the deal is almost closed." Only a few technical details are missing." But he immediately added, "The Palestinians are asking for a few days without Israeli surveillance and attacks, to allow them to gather the hostages scattered in Gaza, to examine who is where and in what condition."
He added, "If Israel allows them to do this quietly – the deal will start to materialize." The current plan is a ceasefire, the release of the hostages in exchange for prisoners, and American oversight; we hope for French oversight as well.
"After that, there will be the beginning of an Israeli withdrawal, while at the same time, the constellation of the new management in the Gaza Strip will start to take shape." The Authority will have a role in this, but it won't be the only one.
