This evening (Wednesday) in Israel, it is estimated that an agreement can be reached on an interim framework that will lead to the release of hostages and an extension of the cease-fire for several weeks, according to reports from Israeli sources involved in the negotiations. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held two discussions last night, one on plans for Gaza and the other on negotiations for the release of hostages.
“Small Oranim” Proposal
As part of the negotiations, an interim proposal known as “Small Oranim” is being examined, which includes: The release of several hostages, extending the cease-fire for several weeks, the release of prisoners, and a time limit for continued discussions.
An Israeli source told Israeli Channel 12 News that “there is progress and an agreement is possible.” He stated, “If there was nothing to do in Doha, the delegation would already have returned to Israel. The negotiations have not collapsed—on the contrary.”
Decisions in the Coming Days
Recall that the previous hostage deal began in January and continued until the beginning of this month. In that deal, 38 Israeli hostages were released, of whom 30 were alive and 8 were deceased. The deal, which took place over several phases, included the release of Emily Demari, Doron Steinberger, and Liri Albag in the first phase, while in contrast, the deceased hostages Shiri Bibas, and her children Ariel and Kfir were brought for burial in Israel in the last phase. Concurrently, 643 Palestinian militants were released as part of the agreement between Israel and Hamas.
Regarding the current deal, it is estimated that in the next two days it will become clear whether efforts to reach an interim agreement will mature into a practical agreement. However, there has been no report of progress or lack of progress concerning the deal.
