Political sources close to the Israeli government indicate that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is demonstrating seriousness, for the first time, in negotiations over a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas in the Gaza Strip, and has reportedly initiated an updated proposal, which includes new ideas similar to the ceasefire agreement reached with Lebanon.
According to the sources, several factors have pushed Netanyahu to move in that direction. One major reason is the intervention by US President-elect Donald Trump and his team, who have actively engaged in talks with Netanyahu’s close circle, led by Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, who is one of Netanyahu’s closest allies, and is highly respected by Trump.
The Israeli news site Walla reported that Trump sent a firm and unequivocal message to Hamas leaders, threatening severe consequences if they did not cooperate. Simultaneously, he emphasized to Israel that he would not tolerate a continuation of the war without purpose, urging both sides to finalize the deal before he takes office in the White House.
Another factor is Netanyahu’s ability to persuade his government to accept the deal as a temporary ceasefire, leaving the door open for resuming hostilities if necessary. This approach mirrors the situation with Lebanon, where the Israeli military continues operations despite the ceasefire. The only significant opposition comes from National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, whose objection is weak and does not threaten the government’s stability. Ben-Gvir is instead negotiating for concessions in settlement policies in the West Bank and maintaining settlement expansion in Gaza on the agenda.
Netanyahu’s personal calculations have also shifted. If he does not move toward a deal, public attention in Israeli society will focus on his corruption trials, which will resume next Tuesday. The proceedings will feature Netanyahu as the central defendant and could overshadow any government achievements. By prioritizing the prisoner exchange deal, Netanyahu and his advisors hope to draw media attention to the negotiations and its phased implementation, diverting focus from the trials for weeks.
Key points of the updated proposal include a temporary halt to hostilities lasting between 42 and 60 days and the release by Hamas of all surviving women captives, men over 50, and those in critical health conditions. While Israel initially demanded the release of 33 captives from these categories, it now recognizes that some may no longer be alive. In return, Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including some serving life sentences.
