Negotiators Seek Temporary Ceasefire in Israel-Hamas Conflict for Release of Captives

The parties engaged in the current negotiations to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are striving for an agreement that would involve a prolonged cessation of hostilities in exchange for the liberation of a significant number of hostages. According to a senior US official familiar with the discussions, this pause in fighting would span several days. If an agreement is reached, the hostages would gradually depart Gaza in a staged manner, with priority given to particularly vulnerable groups such as children and women. The entire process is anticipated to span multiple days.

However, they consistently warned that the negotiations could abruptly halt or worsen: "There have been previous close calls. There is no guarantee whatsoever."

Numerous specifics still need to be resolved and it would probably take several more days, even under the most ideal circumstances, before an agreement could be achieved, according to the official. However, despite the discussion of a potential deal, Israel continued its offensive in Gaza without easing up. CNN journalists observed a significant bombardment carried out by Israeli forces in Gaza on Friday evening.

A senior advisor to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Israeli government believes that adopting an assertive offensive approach is necessary in order to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Former Ambassador Mark Regev, in an interview on MSNBC, emphasized the importance of exerting pressure on Hamas, making it clear that Israel will continue to strongly counter their actions.

CNN has previously reported that the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel was a key element of the negotiations. Netanyahu has insisted that there can be no ceasefire unless the hostages are released.

For weeks, the US, Israel, and Hamas, with the help of Qatar as a mediator, have been involved in talks to secure the release of the hostages in Gaza. Requests for comments from Qatari and Israeli officials went unanswered. The National Security Council spokesperson declined to provide details and commented on negotiations concerning hostages.

Only a small number of individuals, including two Americans, have been liberated thus far since the commencement of the war. Following their departure, President Joe Biden disclosed that Israel had agreed to a temporary ceasefire in order to ensure their liberation.

Please note that this is a developing report and will be continuously revised.