Hamas Offers to Release Hostages in "One Go" – What’s at Stake?

Hamas has made a major proposal in ceasefire negotiations with Israel, offering to release all remaining captives in the Gaza Strip at once. This offer is conditional on Israel agreeing to a permanent ceasefire and withdrawing its forces completely from Gaza.

A High-Stakes Proposal

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem stated, "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." This statement highlights Hamas’ firm stance: they will only free the hostages if Israel commits to ending military operations and withdrawing entirely.

The offer marks a significant shift in the ongoing negotiations, as previous exchanges were carried out in small, phased releases. The move is likely an attempt to increase pressure on Israel while demonstrating Hamas’ willingness to cooperate under specific conditions.

Israel’s Response and Key Obstacles

While Hamas is pushing for a full Israeli withdrawal, Israel has repeatedly stated that it will not agree to a truce without eliminating Hamas’ military capabilities. The Israeli government has also rejected Hamas’ demands to remain in control of Gaza, labeling it a security threat. Hamas, on the other hand, has dismissed any calls for its disarmament, with Qassem calling it "a ridiculous psychological war."

The ongoing negotiations remain difficult, as both sides refuse to budge on key demands. Israel wants to ensure Hamas cannot rebuild its military strength, while Hamas seeks guarantees that Israeli forces will not return to Gaza after a ceasefire.

Doubling the Hostage Release

In a separate development, Hamas has agreed to increase the number of captives to be freed during the next swap. Initially, only three hostages were set for release, but this number has now been doubled to six.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum confirmed that Eliya Cohen, Tal Shoham, Omer Shem Tov, Omer Wenkert, Hisham Al-Sayed, and Avera Mengistu would be released this Saturday. This decision was reportedly made in response to a request from international mediators, signaling Hamas’ commitment to the negotiations.

According to Qassem, "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."

Growing Pressure for a Full Release

International pressure has been mounting for Hamas to release all remaining hostages in a single exchange. U.S. President Donald Trump recently criticized the phased approach to hostage releases, arguing that all captives should be freed together. Additionally, families of the hostages have been vocal in calling for an immediate and complete release of their loved ones.

Meanwhile, Israel’s blockade of Gaza has worsened the humanitarian crisis, as vital border crossings remain sealed. The region is facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies, with aid agencies struggling to reach those in need.

The Human Cost of War

The ongoing conflict has left a devastating toll on Gaza. The Ministry of Health in Gaza has reported 48,291 deaths, while another 111,722 people have been wounded. According to the Government Media Office, the actual death toll could be as high as 61,709, with thousands still buried under the rubble.

Rebuilding Gaza is expected to be an enormous financial challenge. A joint report by the World Bank, the United Nations, and the European Union estimates that reconstruction efforts could cost around $53.2 billion. The scale of destruction has made it nearly impossible for displaced Palestinians to return to their homes, further fueling the humanitarian crisis.

What’s Next?

As ceasefire negotiations continue, both Israel and Hamas remain firm on their demands. While Hamas’ latest proposal could be a step toward resolving the conflict, it remains to be seen whether Israel will accept the conditions of a full withdrawal.

The situation is fluid, and diplomatic efforts are ongoing. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether a lasting truce can be achieved—or if the conflict will continue to escalate.