As rumors grow - and pressure - for Israel and Hamas to extend the ceasefire deadline, mistrust has once again taken center stage in relations between the two. The Israeli authorities were concerned about the list provided by the terrorist group with the names of the last 11 hostages that they would release today to complete the 50 agreed upon. Problems also arose with the names of imprisoned terrorists that the Jewish State should put on the streets.
Announcement by the Prime Minister's Office-Coordinator for the Hostages and Missing:
Discussions are being held on the list that was received overnight and which is now being evaluated in Israel. Additional information will be issued when possible.
— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) November 27, 2023
Discussions in the Israeli Government
Although the Biden Administration, through spokespersons and the president himself, expressed their desire for the ceasefire to be extended, and even indicated that Israel and the terrorist group seemed to welcome the idea, the reality is that both sides are considering the possibility as they prepare to resume fighting. According to the Prime Minister's Office, members of the Government are discussing what to do.
According to an official, who spoke with Reuters on the condition of anonymity, Hamas reportedly expressed its agreement to extend the ceasefire by at least one more day, while Jewish authorities have reportedly agreed to stop the ground operation in Gaza for an extra day for every 10 hostages released. In addition, it would open the prison to three terrorists for each of the kidnapped people.
Qatar tries to bring positions closer
According to Reuters, the situation worsened between both sides after the release of the 17 hostages during the third day and the terrorists' delivery of the list of the last 11 hostages they intend to release. According to the agency, the terrorists also do not seem to agree with the prisoners who would return to the streets in exchange.
According to the agency, Qatari mediators are reportedly working against the clock with both sides to try to reach an agreement as soon as possible to avoid delays - as happened on Saturday - and an escalation of tension.
