You are currently viewing Qatar-Mediated Deal Terms: Hamas to Free 8 Hostiles as IDF Starts Pullback from Gaza by Carl Montel.
Left: Thousands of Palestinians displaced by Israel continue to return to their lands in north Gaza on Jan. 29, 2025. Right: Relatives of Israeli hostages and supporters demand the Israeli government adhere to the ceasefire in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Jan. 25, 2025. (Left: Moiz Salhi/Anadolu via Getty Images; Right: Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Qatar-Mediated Deal Terms: Hamas to Free 8 Hostiles as IDF Starts Pullback from Gaza by Carl Montel.

Bringing you developing news from the Middle East, and it’s potentially a major turning point in the Gaza conflict. According to a confidential draft agreement obtained by Haaretz, a U.S.-backed cease-fire proposal mediated by Qatar could see eight Israeli hostages released immediately, as Israeli forces begin a phased withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.

The agreement, reportedly based on the “Witkoff Framework” proposed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, outlines a 60-day truce aimed at opening the door to a broader resolution between Israel and Hamas.

Key details of the draft agreement include:

  • Day 1: Eight living hostages to be freed by Hamas, while the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) begin redeploying from Gaza.

  • Day 7: Return of five bodies of deceased hostages.

  • Day 10: Hamas to deliver comprehensive information on all remaining captives — including proof of life or death.

  • Day 30 and Day 60: Additional sets of five and eight bodies of Israeli hostages to be returned.

  • Day 50: Two more living hostages will be released.

In total, 10 living hostages and 18 bodies would be repatriated over the two-month period.

In exchange, Israel will halt all military operations, including aerial surveillance for 10 hours daily, and 12 hours on exchange days. Humanitarian aid is to begin flowing into Gaza immediately — facilitated by the United Nations and the Red Crescent.

The draft stresses Hamas’ commitment to ensure the safety, health, and humane treatment of hostages throughout the cease-fire.

President Donald Trump is expected to personally announce the truce and is described in the document as being “committed to ensuring good faith negotiations continue until a final agreement is reached.” The U.S., along with Qatar and Egypt, will serve as guarantors to uphold and monitor the deal.

Negotiations during the truce will also address:

  • The release of remaining hostages and corresponding Palestinian prisoner exchanges;

  • Security arrangements for post-ceasefire Gaza;

  • Plans for the “day after” – long-term governance, reconstruction, and regional stabilization.

This agreement follows months of deadlock and intense behind-the-scenes diplomacy. If ratified, it would mark the most significant diplomatic breakthrough in the conflict since the October 7 attacks that reignited hostilities.

Reporting by Carl Montel.

Leave a Reply