Hamas refuses to reveal how many hostages are alive
The TelegraphMore than 250 hostages were taken to Gaza when Hamas militia invaded Israel on Oct 7. ‘Reminiscent of Gilad Shalit deal’ The latest reports from the ceasefire talks suggest that only 40 of the hostages would be released in exchange for around 400 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. A security source in Israel told The Telegraph: “This is a very sensitive time as it’s reminiscent of the Gilad Shalit deal in which over 1,000 Palestinians were released in return for one Israeli soldier. “While the priority is the release of the hostages, many of the 1,000 released before were responsible for what happened on October 7 so to see this repeated would signal disaster for those who remember.” Get me a deal, says Biden It is thought that the first stage of a potential deal could include a six-week pause in fighting, as well as preparation for a gradual return of Palestinian citizens to the northern part of the Gaza Strip. Mr Biden told the negotiating team this weekend to “get me a deal”, according to US officials, as time runs out to secure a ceasefire before the holy month of Ramadan begins.