Hamas is seeking “additional compensation” for 11 male hostages in early ceasefire talks

Hamas is reportedly seeking “additional compensation” in return for the inclusion of 11 male hostages in the initial phase of a possible ceasefire agreement. According to the Egyptian newspaper Al-Ghad, the group is subtly requesting the release of Palestinian prisoners who do not meet the previously established criteria in exchange for these hostages, whom they classify as soldiers.

While this information has not been officially verified, Israeli newspaper Haaretz indicated on Saturday that Israel has consented to release 200 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, although discussions regarding the specific individuals to be released have reached an impasse.

Al-Ghad also mentioned that Israel is demanding the release of 34 hostages, including the 11 males, as part of the first phase of a potential ceasefire arrangement.

Additional topics under negotiation include the possible reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, as well as the potential withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Netzarim Corridor, which divides the Gaza Strip.

Furthermore, Hamas is requesting that Gazan civilians be permitted to return to the northern part of the Strip and is advocating for a gradual withdrawal of troops from the Philadelphi Corridor, an area of land monitored by Israeli forces adjacent to Gaza’s border with Egypt.