Hamas's dramatic leadership change as hostage freedom inches closer

Senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya has taken command of the group's military wing amid reports that hostage negotiations are close to completion, according to sources familiar with the matter.

Al-Hayya, who leads Hamas's negotiating team and holds a top position in Gaza, has received full backing from military commanders on the ground, Arab media outlet Al Araby Al Jadeed reported Wednesday.

The leadership change comes as Egyptian sources indicate that cease-fire talks are in their final stages. Recent days have reportedly seen breakthrough compromises on key sticking points, including:

- A proposed delay in releasing 10 high-profile Palestinian prisoners until the deal's final phase

- Hamas agreeing to free several captured soldiers, including five women and four individuals with American and Russian citizenship

Responding to questions about hostages' status, a Hamas official said the group has shared information about captives they've been able to locate, noting that wartime conditions have made communication between different factions holding hostages difficult. The official added that a complete list of surviving hostages would be provided once a cease-fire takes effect and security conditions stabilize.

The negotiations have reportedly made progress on previously contentious issues. The Palestinian prisoners whose release would be delayed include prominent figures like Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti and PFLP leader Ahmad Sa'adat, along with several other key officials.

JPost contributed to this article.