Israel open to discussing “sustainable calm” in Gaza after initial hostage release: officials

A new Israeli proposal for a possible hostage deal with Hamas includes a willingness to discuss the “restoration of sustainable calm” in Gaza after an initial release of hostages on humanitarian grounds, two Israeli officials told Axios.

Why it matters: It is the first time since the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by Hamas that Israeli leaders have suggested they are open to discussing an end to the war in Gaza as part of a hostage deal.

Behind the scenes: The Israeli officials said the new proposal was formulated jointly by the Egyptian intelligence delegation and the Israeli negotiations team, taking into account the positions Hamas has presented so far and what Israel and Egypt think the group might agree to in a deal. 

  • The new proposal includes a response to many of Hamas’ demands, such as a willingness for full return of displaced Palestinians to their homes in northern Gaza and the withdrawal of the IDF from the corridor that divides the enclave and prevents freedom of movement, the officials said.
  • The proposal also includes a willingness to discuss the establishment of a sustainable ceasefire as part of the implementation of the second phase of the deal, which would take place after the release of hostages on humanitarian grounds. 

What they’re saying: “We hope that what we have proposed is enough to bring Hamas into serious negotiations. We hope Hamas sees we are serious about reaching a deal — and we are serious,” an Israeli official said.

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