Indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel, facilitated by Egyptian, Qatari, and Turkish mediators, have entered their final phase, focusing on the list of prisoners to be exchanged, according to Palestinian sources. The talks, held on Sunday, aim to finalize the details of a recently agreed ceasefire deal. Under the agreement, Hamas will release 20 living hostages and 28 deceased hostages held in Gaza since the Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7, 2023. In return, Israel will free approximately 2,000 Palestinian detainees. However, disagreements persist over the composition of the prisoner list. Hamas is pushing for the inclusion of prominent figures such as Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti and Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine leader Ahmed Saadat, while Israel prefers to release women, minors, and prisoners serving medium-term sentences. A senior Hamas official, speaking anonymously, revealed that intensive discussions with mediators have been ongoing to expand the list and prioritize the release of long-term detainees. The official expressed confidence that mediators are working tirelessly to resolve remaining obstacles before the official announcement. Hamas reiterated its commitment to implementing the agreement on schedule, emphasizing its humanitarian framework supervised by international partners. Meanwhile, Israel anticipates the release of all 20 living hostages early Monday morning. An international task force will be established to assist in locating the remains of deceased hostages. Israeli security measures have been heightened in Gaza to ensure the smooth execution of the exchange process.
Hamas, Israel in discussions over list of prisoners to be released: Palestinian sources
