In a move meant to demonstrate “necessary flexibility,” Hamas has announced plans to release ten Israeli hostages to help accelerate stalled ceasefire negotiations with Israel. The militant group said the gesture is part of “intensive and responsible efforts” to reach a comprehensive agreement. However, the core demands — including Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, a permanent ceasefire, and the influx of humanitarian aid — remain under intense negotiation. Israel has so far rejected the terms. The announcement comes just days after Defense Minister Israel Katz revealed plans to relocate Gaza’s population to a so-called “humanitarian city” built on Rafah’s ruins. Rights groups have condemned it as an internment plan. With around 50 hostages still in captivity and only half believed to be alive, pressure is mounting. Over 57,000 Palestinians have died in Israel’s military campaign since October 2023, raising global demands for a resolution and accountability.
