Israel сonsiders temporary Gaza withdrawal for hostage deal

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is contemplating a temporary withdrawal from the Gaza Strip to facilitate the first phase of a deal to free hostages held by the radical HAMAS movement, according to Report, which cites The Jerusalem Post.

Several high-ranking sources in the Israeli Ministry of Defense believe that a complete 42-day pullout from Gaza would not significantly compromise Israel's security. However, this move could help liberate between 18 and 33 of the 120 remaining captives held by HAMAS.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to discuss the deal with top US officials during his three-day visit to Washington, which began on Monday. Negotiations between Israel and HAMAS representatives are being mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.

On May 31, US President Joe Biden announced the terms of a new three-stage peace agreement for Gaza. The first six-week phase involves a complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli troops from populated areas, and the release of HAMAS-held hostages in exchange for the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. During this period, the parties are to begin talks, with the ceasefire lasting until an understanding is reached.

The second phase entails the release of all hostages, including military personnel. The third stage focuses on rebuilding the Gaza Strip and returning the remains of fallen Israelis to their families.