Israel signals openness to Gaza war talks, includes hostage deal

For the first time since Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Israeli leaders have indicated they are open to discussions about ending the war in Gaza, including a deal involving hostages, as reported by Barak Ravid, a political reporter and Middle East expert at Axios.

This potential shift in stance is the outcome of negotiations between Egyptian intelligence representatives and the Israeli negotiation team.

"The new proposal includes a response to many of Hamas' demands, such as a willingness for full return of displaced Palestinians to their homes in northern Gaza and the withdrawal of the IDF from the corridor that divides the enclave and prevents freedom of movement," Axios reported.

Barak Ravid highlighted, "The proposal also includes a willingness to discuss the establishment of a sustainable ceasefire as part of the implementation of the second phase of the deal, which would take place after the release of hostages on humanitarian grounds."

Axios's Middle East expert pointed out that, for the first time since the October terrorist attack, Israeli leaders are showing willingness to negotiate an end to the Gaza war as part of a hostage agreement.

Israel's offer includes releasing several dozen hostages held by Hamas (the exact number is still up for negotiation) in return for a six-week ceasefire and the release of approximately 900 Palestinian prisoners.

"They should understand that it is possible that if the first stage is implemented, it will be possible to advance to the next stages and reach the end of the war", an Israeli official mentioned to Axios.

The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas was a key topic at the two-day World Economic Forum, which started on Sunday (April 28) in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia.

During the first panel discussion, Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed al-Jadaan mentioned that geopolitical tensions significantly threaten the global economy.

- Civilian lives matter whether in Ukraine or Palestine - al-Jadaan stated, emphasizing how conflicts impact societal sentiments and, consequently, the economy.

The conflict in Gaza and broader Middle Eastern tensions are reflected in Brent crude oil prices, which have hovered around $90 per barrel. Additionally, international trade has been disrupted due to the blockade of the route through the Red Sea, stemming from attacks by Yemen's Houthis on shipping vessels.

In the Hamas attack on Israel, approximately 1,170 people lost their lives, mostly civilians, and around 130 people were taken hostage. In the ensuing Israeli counteractions in Gaza, over 34,000 people died, predominantly women and children.