Why it matters:
Through this action, Hamas has demonstrated its seriousness and full readiness to take steps to end the issue of prisoners and consolidate the ceasefire to achieve a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
The big picture:
The first phase of the ceasefire agreement, implemented on January 19, 2025, included a phased release of 33 Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for 1,700 to 2,000 Palestinian and Arab detainees.
What they are saying:
The Media advisor to the leader of the Hamas movement, Taher Al-Nounou said: "Hamas is prepared to release all remaining Israeli captives in a single exchange, rather than in multiple stages, as part of a comprehensive agreement and in return for the release of all Palestinian prisoners and detainees in Israeli prisons."
On the ceasefire, he added, "This move demonstrates Hamas’s seriousness and full readiness to take steps toward resolving the hostage issue and securing a permanent ceasefire in Gaza."
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar said, "Israel will soon begin negotiations on the second phase of the prisoner exchange agreement with Hamas."
He added, "We have significant support from US President, Donald Trump."
Key points:
- Al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas’s military wing, has so far released 19 Israeli hostages in six separate groups.
- The upcoming negotiations could determine the timeline and conditions for the full exchange of prisoners.
Go deeper:
On January 19, 2025, the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between the Israeli regime and Hamas was implemented, which consisted of three stages, each lasting 42 days.
Hamas Secures Major Prisoner Exchange Despite Israeli Pressure
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