Holding Firm on the Morag Axis
Against the backdrop of hostage deal negotiations, Israeli security sources emphasized today (Thursday) that even if a ceasefire agreement is reached, IDF forces will be required to remain in the Morag Corridor.
The Morag Axis is a strategic route overseeing the Rafah area and also encircling the Philadelphi Corridor.
According to reports, the American framework presented by negotiator Steve Witkoff includes a clause stating that Israel would return to the positions it held during the previous ceasefire — meaning no presence in the Morag Axis. Israel is firmly opposed to this.
In the meantime, the IDF continues operating at high intensity in the Gaza Strip. Reports indicate that five divisions are operating simultaneously in the area.
Ten Hostages to Be Released in Five Phases
The New York Times published new details overnight about the Israeli proposal.
According to the report, the central change in the new proposal concerns the timetable for the release of the hostages and the return of the bodies of fallen soldiers. The timeline is expected to span five phases over a period of 60 days — as opposed to the previous plan, under which ten living hostages would have been released within seven days.
Hamas to Deliver Its Response Before Friday Evening
Sources close to Hamas told the Saudi channel Al-Sharq that Hamas will deliver its response to the mediators before Friday evening.
Israeli political sources estimate that if the Hamas terror organization gives the green light to a comprehensive hostage deal, it will be possible to bring the fighting in Gaza to an end.
In addition, officials in Jerusalem have agreed to show flexibility regarding the guarantees Hamas is demanding for ending the campaign. Israeli sources say the negotiations will proceed in stages — beginning with the release of hostages and a ceasefire, followed by talks on ending the war.
