Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant told the families of hostages held by Hamas on Thursday that a deal to release them is “closer than ever.” “A month ago I was pessimistic about our chances of reaching a deal anytime soon. One of my prime goals in all of my meetings in the United States was to put pressure on Hamas to come to a deal with the understanding that there’s not going to be a better deal,” Gallant said as quoted by Channel 12. “Today, and I’m saying this cautiously, we’re closer than ever,” he added. The comments come after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed he approved sending a delegation of negotiators to discuss Hamas’ latest proposal on a ceasefire and freeing hostages with the mediators from the United States, Qatar and Egypt. Earlier media reports suggested Israeli officials said the proposal is positive and allows the talks to move forward.
Israel reportedly okays sending delegation for individual talks
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu approved sending the country’s delegation for individual negotiations on the hostage deal, Axios reporter Barak Ravid shared citing sources from the prime minister’s office. According to the sources, the decision comes following Hamas’ latest response. “Important progress has been made, but there is still a significant way to go with serious challenges,” Israeli officials previously mentioned. Even with the most recent unfoldings, officials are still expecting the talks to be “tough” and last for a couple of weeks.