As mediation efforts for a hostage release agreement continue, the IDF is pursuing its operations and is acting with force in the Gaza Strip. Over the past several days, dozens of terrorists have been eliminated.
The combat team of the Kfir Brigade, under the command of the 36th Division, has been operating in the Khan Younis area as part of Operation Gideon’s Chariots. The forces have eliminated dozens of terrorists, destroyed explosive-rigged locations and booby-trapped buildings, and uncovered weapons used by terror groups in the Strip.
Alongside the negotiations, the IDF does not stop – dozens of terrorists eliminated in Gaza | Video: IDF Spokesperson
Hostage Deal Negotiations
In parallel with the developments on the ground, preparations for a political settlement continue. Yesterday, the Arabic-language network Al Arabiya published the American proposal delivered to Hamas, which includes an agreed framework for a 60-day ceasefire, the release of 10 live hostages and 18 bodies of fallen hostages in two stages, and the redeployment of forces in accordance with prior agreements.
The proposal also includes the transfer of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip via the UN and the Red Crescent, and a daily pause in Israeli military operations for several hours.
In exchange, Israel would release 125 prisoners serving life sentences for deadly attacks and 1,111 Palestinian detainees captured during the current war. Additionally, 180 bodies of Hamas militants would be transferred. The agreement would be guaranteed by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, and U.S. President Donald Trump was expected to personally announce its implementation and oversee its follow-through.
Hamas Rejects the Agreement
A key component of the proposal addresses the “day after” scenario: an intensive round of negotiations toward a permanent settlement, including the release of remaining hostages (both living and deceased), security arrangements for Gaza, deployment of regional security forces, and a formal declaration of an end to hostilities. If significant progress is made, the ceasefire could be extended beyond the initial 60 days.
Despite positive signals from Israel, Hamas officials told the BBC this morning that they reject the proposal. According to them, the framework does not guarantee a complete end to the fighting, does not require an Israeli withdrawal, and does not restore the humanitarian conditions of previous ceasefires.
Israel clarified: “We will not leave Gaza without bringing all the hostages home.”
