Israel, Hamas Near Hostage Deal as Gaza Fighting Intensifies

A potential agreement has been brokered to release hostages in Gaza, according to White House Officials. The proposed deal entails the exchange of approximately 50 women and children for around 150 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel in the initial phase, NBC News reported. These figures are subject to change, and the success of the deal hinges on the approval of Israel’s government.

In response to reports suggesting proximity to a truce deal with Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is conducting special Cabinet meetings today, as announced by his office.

Intense clashes have erupted in the vicinity of the Indonesian Hospital in northern Gaza, coinciding with the expansion of Israel’s ground assault on the Palestinian enclave. Israeli forces claim to have surrounded Jabalia, an adjacent refugee camp. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate, with over 1.6 million people displaced, and health officials reporting a death toll exceeding 13,000 due to weeks of Israeli attacks. The Israel Defense Forces estimate that 1,200 people lost their lives in the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, and 236 individuals are still held hostage in Gaza.

The post Israel, Hamas Near Hostage Deal as Gaza Fighting Intensifies appeared first on Breaking911.