Israel and Hamas on Verge of Agreement to Free Hostages

After 465 days in captivity, some of the 98 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza may soon be coming home as negotiations between Israel and the terrorist group advance. Mediators presented both sides with a final draft of a ceasefire and hostage release agreement, fueling optimism for a potential breakthrough.

However, deep concerns remain over the terms of the deal, with key Israeli leaders warning that any agreement involving the release of Hamas terrorists could compromise national security. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump has made it clear that if the hostages are not freed before January 20, 2025, there will be severe consequences for Hamas and its backers.

• The deal’s first phase is expected to last 42 days, with 33 hostages released initially.

• The remaining phases will be negotiated after the 16th day of the agreement.

• Hamas militants have reportedly been ordered to remain in hiding, fearing Israeli assassinations before the deal is finalized.

• Seven American hostages remain in Gaza, including Edan Alexander, Itay Chen, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Gadi Haggai, Judi Weinstein Haggai, Omer Neutra, and Keith Siegel.

As President Joe Biden struggles to finalize a deal, President-elect Donald Trump has sent a clear warning: if the hostages are not freed before he takes office, Hamas will pay dearly.

“If the hostages are not released prior to January 20, 2025… there will be ALL HELL TO PAY in the Middle East,” Trump wrote. “Those responsible will be hit harder than anybody has been hit in the long and storied history of the United States of America.”

Trump’s firm stance stands in stark contrast to Biden’s weak foreign policy, which has emboldened Iran-backed terrorist groups across the region.

Despite growing pressure to bring hostages home, several Israeli leaders oppose the current terms, arguing that releasing Hamas terrorists would jeopardize Israel’s long-term security.

• Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called the deal a catastrophe, warning that it would allow Hamas to regroup and continue attacks.

• The Yesha Council which represents Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to reject any agreement that includes the release of terrorists.

Hamas has not yet delivered its final response, but reports suggest that if no major changes are made, the deal will likely be accepted. Meanwhile, Israeli forces are preparing for a potential hostage return, though military leaders remain skeptical about the long-term consequences.

One thing is certain: if Hamas fails to comply before Trump takes office, the consequences will be devastating.

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