Hamas adds new demands for captive release, reports NYT

Hamas has reportedly added new demands for the release of captives, including the release of more Palestinian prisoners in the first phase of the agreement, according to the New York Times (NYT).

- Negotiation details -

The ongoing negotiations involve the bodies of 35 individuals believed to be deceased, with Hamas recently introducing new demands.

The NYT quoted two American officials as saying that Hamas now seeks the release of additional Palestinian prisoners in the initial phase of any agreement, despite having previously agreed to the proposal.

“There’s now fewer names on the list” of captives to be exchanged, a US official said, adding that this further complicates the situation.

Hamas placed the responsibility for those deaths on Israeli Occupation airstrikes which have bombarded Gaza since early October 2023. In turn, 'Israel' held Hamas responsible for their deaths.

Hamas also threatened to execute more captives if 'Israeli' forces come closer to their location.

In response, the families of the captives plan to light candles at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv to mark the beginning of Shabbat, and they will gather again on Saturday evening. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged Israelis to join them in demanding a resolution to the crisis.

- US comments -

Earlier, the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) has revealed that intensive efforts are underway to secure a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, which includes the deployment of peacekeeping forces without the involvement of American troops.

Pentagon spokesperson Sabrina Singh stated that the US is working diligently on the deal, emphasizing that the proposed agreement would involve peacekeeping forces without direct American intervention.

Negotiations have been ongoing for several months, mediated by Egypt and Qatar with US support, aiming to reach a ceasefire and prisoner exchange in Gaza. However, progress has been slow.