Gaza Agreement Nears Completion but Key Issues Remain
Negotiations stall over prisoner exchange and control of the Philadelphi Corridor as Hamas executions complicate talks.
- 90% of the Gaza agreement is finalized, but significant gaps persist, particularly around the prisoner-hostage exchange.
- Hamas' recent execution of six hostages, including an Israeli-American, casts doubt on their commitment to any deal.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu insists on retaining control over the Philadelphi Corridor to prevent arms smuggling, a major sticking point.
- U.S. officials emphasize the urgency of resolving the exchange details, with 800 Palestinian prisoners and 18-32 hostages involved in the first phase.
- Despite setbacks, the U.S. remains focused on finalizing the current agreement rather than introducing a new plan.