Negotiations over a new hostage deal between Israel and Hamas are underway under complete secrecy, a senior official involved in the talks acknowledged to Israel Hayom. Other Israeli officials confirmed that a new and improved proposal was received yesterday and is currently being examined. However, they noted, the proposal still does not meet Israel's stated demands.
Contrary to a government source who last night denied that the proposal had reached Israeli hands, the fact is that the talks are progressing despite intense fighting. The military campaign in Gaza is leaving its mark, and week by week the offers coming from the mediators are showing signs of improvement. Nonetheless, Israeli officials remain cautious in their reactions, mindful that Hamas has rejected similar proposals in the past.
This morning, Ibrahim al-Madhoun, a figure close to the leadership of the Hamas terrorist organization, denied last night's reports about a mediation offer that included the release of eight living hostages and a ceasefire lasting approximately two months. According to al-Madhoun, "So far, no new proposal has been presented to Hamas by Egypt, Qatar, or any other party regarding a de-escalation process or arrangements for a deal."
