What it is about
Amid reports of significant losses and deteriorating conditions, senior Hamas officials in Gaza have urged their exiled political leadership to accept US President Joe Biden’s proposed ceasefire and hostage exchange deal. The messages were shared by a Middle East official familiar with the negotiations and seen by The Associated Press.
Why it matters
These communications highlight the immense pressure on Hamas as the war continues to ravage Gaza, revealing internal rifts and the potential for a breakthrough in ceasefire negotiations. Accepting the deal could lead to a significant reduction in hostilities and the return of hostages to Israel, fostering a path towards stability in the region.
Communications Reveal Internal Pressure
The documentation, dated from May and June, painted a grim picture for Hamas fighters on the battlefield. Senior figures in Gaza urged their exiled counterparts in Qatar, where political leader Ismail Haniyeh is based, to accept the deal despite local leader Yahya Sinwar’s reluctance.
The Role of Yahya Sinwar
The messages suggest that Sinwar, currently hiding, may not be fully aware or communicative of the toll of the fighting on Hamas to those involved in the negotiations. This gap in communication underscores the fragmented situation within Hamas leadership.
Impact of Israeli Operations
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu credited Israel’s two-month offensive in southern Gaza for bringing Hamas to the negotiation table. Israel’s military pressure appears to have significantly influenced Hamas, demonstrating the effectiveness of Israel’s defensive tactics.
Hostage Negotiations
Negotiations have persisted since Hamas’s attack on October 7, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages taken. A previous deal in November saw the release of 105 civilian hostages for a one-week ceasefire and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners, though further agreements have struggled to materialize.
US and Allied Efforts
The US and its allies, including Egypt and Qatar, continue to facilitate talks. US officials are aware of the divisions within Hamas and believe these internal pressures, along with the dire situation in Gaza, are pushing the group toward accepting a ceasefire.
Unified Stance Questioned
Despite public denials of internal divisions from spokespeople like Jihad Taha, the uncovered communications suggest a more complex internal dynamic, indicating a pivotal moment for Hamas in terms of both internal and external policies.
Expected Timeline
Hamas and Egyptian officials describe a phased deal starting with a six-week ceasefire, during which hostages would be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners. Broader talks to end the war would commence during this phase, potentially paving the way for prolonged peace.
Optimism with Caution
US officials express cautious optimism about the ceasefire prospect. While previous efforts have fallen through, the significant developments in recent negotiations offer a glimmer of hope for a sustainable peace agreement.
Current Situation of Hostages
An estimated 116 hostages taken by Hamas are believed to still be in Gaza. The IDF has confirmed the deaths of 42 hostages, citing intelligence reports. Hamas continues to hold two Israeli civilians and the bodies of two soldiers captured in past conflicts.
Humanitarian Impact
According to Hamas-run health ministry, over 38,000 individuals in Gaza have perished or are presumed dead in the ongoing conflict. Israel verifies the killing of around 16,000 combatants over the course of the war. These figures highlight the severe human toll and the urgent need for resolution.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.