Israeli sources in Jerusalem said Monday that Israel's position still aims for the Witkoff framework and the return of half of the living hostages in the first phase, following the Egyptian report this morning about Hamas compromising on the number of living hostages to be released in an upcoming deal.
This means no fewer than ten living hostages, according to some of the data they rely on regarding the condition of hostages in Gaza.
The Lebanese newspaper noted that the estimate is that, in return, the mediator will submit a request for the release of 1,100 Palestinian security prisoners, including some who would be deported to Egypt and other countries.
Moreover, an Egyptian official said that the deal being negotiated could lead to the release of 11 living hostages and the transfer of 16 coffins of deceased hostages, in the case of a ceasefire lasting 70 days.
According to the Egyptian official, this is expected to pave the way for calm until after Eid al-Adha (June 9). Additionally, the framework includes opening crossings and allowing large quantities of aid into Gaza daily.
The Tikvah Forum, an advocacy group for the hostages, reported this morning that "Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and head of the Hostages Administration, Gal Hirsch, called Zvika and Efrat Mor, parents of hostage Eitan Mor, yesterday and updated them regarding progress in negotiations for the release of ten living hostages. The prime minister emphasized that the deal is not yet final but clarified that the government is committed to returning all hostages. Zvika and Efrat Mor emphasized to the prime minister the position of the Tikvah Forum, which maintains there is an obligation to return all hostages in one phase and on one bus – without selection among them."
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum stated, "While families wait and hope for the release of each and every hostage from Hamas captivity, we cannot ignore that the method of partial phases is a dangerous concept. Government officials continue to talk about increasing military pressure that will lead to the release of all hostages, while in practice, negotiations are stuck, hostages are in life-threatening danger, and the deceased are disappearing. The phased method wastes precious time and endangers all hostages.
"The State of Israel is committed to bringing everyone back. We demand choosing the necessary, possible, and appropriate solution: ending the war and returning all hostages together, in one immediate phase."
