Israel Divided Over Hostage Deal as Gaza Ceasefire Nears
As negotiations near completion for a ceasefire in Gaza, Israel faces a divisive debate over a proposed deal to secure the release of hostages taken by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack. Reporter Keren Setton details how the agreement, mediated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, would unfold in multiple stages. The first phase reportedly involves the release of 33 hostages, primarily women, children, and the elderly, in exchange for 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, the deal has sparked fierce opposition within Israel, with critics warning it could jeopardize national security and leave many hostages behind.
Supporters argue the incremental deal is a necessary first step to saving lives, while opponents, including some hostage families and hawkish political factions, fear it risks Israel’s strategic leverage. Concerns are mounting that Hamas could exploit the fragile truce to regroup, especially as Israel may withdraw forces from Gaza and release additional prisoners in later stages. Military experts emphasize the challenges of negotiating with Hamas, a group with a history of prolonged hostage retention.
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The proposed deal has exposed sharp divisions within Israeli society and its government. Some officials have threatened to resign, condemning the plan as dangerously one-sided. Setton notes that memories of past prisoner exchanges, such as the 2011 release of Yahya Sinwar—who later orchestrated the October 7 attacks—intensify these fears. Despite the controversy, many families of hostages insist that any progress, however small, is worth pursuing to bring their loved ones home.
For a deeper look into Israel’s internal struggle over the Gaza ceasefire deal, read Keren Setton’s full report.
