Netanyahu Hopeful of Freeing Gaza Hostages Within Days as Negotiators Head to Cairo
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed optimism that hostages held in Gaza could be released within days, as negotiators from Israel and Hamas prepare to meet in Cairo for talks aimed at finalizing a U.S.-backed ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. Netanyahu said on Saturday that he had instructed Israeli envoys to head to Egypt to work out the technical details after Hamas signaled a positive response to the proposed framework. The plan, which has been endorsed by the United States and mediated by Egypt and Qatar, outlines a phased ceasefire, the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. U.S. President Donald Trump has also urged swift action, warning against delays and stressing that the release could begin rapidly if both parties reach agreement on implementation. Reports suggest the initial phase could see dozens of hostages freed within days, followed by reciprocal steps including the release of Palestinian prisoners and Israeli troop redeployments. Longer-term issues, such as Hamas’s disarmament and Gaza’s governance, would be negotiated in later stages. Families of hostages have welcomed the renewed momentum but remain cautious given past setbacks in similar talks. The negotiations come amid a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where international aid agencies have warned of mounting civilian casualties and deteriorating living conditions. Mediators in Cairo are expected to focus on sequencing and security arrangements to ensure the safety of hostages and the enforceability of the agreement. Analysts warn that challenges remain, including political resistance within Israel and uncertainty over Hamas’s commitment to the deal. However, the latest signals from both sides have raised hopes that a breakthrough could be within reach, with international mediators working to secure an agreement that could pave the way for stability in the region.
