Hamas Proposes Full Prisoner Exchange in Return For Ceasefire in Gaza

Hamas has proposed the release of all captives held in Gaza in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the war-torn enclave. The group’s spokesman, Hazem Qassem, announced this on Wednesday, emphasizing that Hamas is committed to the next phase of negotiations if it ensures an end to hostilities.

“We are ready for a second phase in which the prisoners will be exchanged in one go, within the criterion of reaching an agreement that leads to a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal from the Strip,” Qassem stated.

Hamas Rejects Israeli Conditions

The proposal comes amid Israel’s demands for Hamas to be dismantled and disarmed as part of any long-term agreement. However, Hamas has firmly rejected these conditions.

“The occupation’s condition of removing Hamas from the Gaza Strip is a ridiculous psychological war, and the withdrawal or disarmament of the resistance from Gaza is unacceptable,” Qassem said.

Hamas also confirmed that it had agreed to double the number of captives set for release in the next swap, from three to six. This decision was made following mediation efforts, according to Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas leader.

“Doubling the number of prisoners to be released was done in response to a request from the mediators and to prove our seriousness in implementing all the terms of the agreement,” Qassem added.

Challenges in Implementing the Ceasefire Deal

The implementation of the ceasefire agreement has faced multiple obstacles. Last week, Hamas threatened to delay the exchange process, accusing Israel of failing to uphold its commitments, including allowing mobile homes and heavy construction equipment into Gaza.

Israel’s control over border crossings has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with continued restrictions on the entry of essential supplies and reconstruction materials. Gaza’s Ministry of Health reports that the war has resulted in the deaths of at least 48,291 people, with over 111,722 wounded. The Government Media Office estimates the death toll to be at least 61,709, accounting for those still buried under rubble.

Rebuilding Gaza is projected to cost around $53.2 billion, according to a joint report by the World Bank, the United Nations, and the European Union. Of this amount, approximately $15.2 billion is needed for housing alone.

Israel Faces Difficulties in Defeating Hamas

Despite its military superiority, Israel has struggled to achieve a decisive victory over Hamas. According to Al Jazeera’s senior political analyst Marwan Bishara, the real challenge lies in implementing the later phases of the ceasefire deal.

“The problem for Israel is that despite having the upper hand, it’s not able to defeat Hamas,” Bishara said. “But here we are, and Israel is dictating the process—when and where aid goes in. And as long as those alternative housing units are not getting in, it’s making things quite difficult for the Palestinians.”

Uncertain Future of the Ceasefire

The temporary ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, which came into effect on January 19 after over 460 days of war, remains fragile. Israeli leaders have discussed the possibility of resuming full-scale military operations, while far-right ministers in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet have advocated for a long-term military occupation of Gaza.

Since the ceasefire began, 1,135 Palestinian prisoners have been released from Israeli jails. Another 502 are scheduled for release this week. Meanwhile, Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad have freed 25 captives since January 19.

As negotiations continue, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain, with both sides standing firm on their respective demands.

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