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Hamas Concedes to Israel's Demands; Hostage Release Near After 433 Days

Dec 12, 2024, 03:00 AM

Hamas has conceded to two of Israel's key demands for a cease-fire deal in Gaza, Arab mediators reported, raising hopes for an agreement and the release of hostages within days. The Palestinian militant group agreed to allow Israeli troops to temporarily remain in Gaza post-conflict, specifically in the Philadelphi Corridor along the Palestinian-Egyptian border and the Netzarim Corridor which splits Gaza in two, and presented a list of hostages they are willing to release. Negotiations in Cairo have made significant progress, with hopes that the impasse lasting over 433 days since the hostages were taken may soon end. Adam Boehler, President-elect Donald Trump's newly appointed Hostage Affairs Envoy, unveiled the incoming administration's strategy to secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Families of hostages, including Aviva Siegel, whose husband Keith remains in Hamas captivity, and Yarden Bibas, whose family has been held in Gaza for 432 days, are hopeful that these developments will lead to their loved ones' return. Trump recently met with a former Hamas hostage and affirmed his commitment to freeing all hostages. These negotiations mark significant progress in the efforts to end the long-standing impasse.