Hamas sources in Gaza told Asharq Al-Awsat on Wednesday that mediators have offered guarantees to ensure Israel’s commitment to a ceasefire and to start real talks for the next phase.
The sources said the situation is “encouraging,” adding that if Israel follows through on the agreement, the release of hostages will happen as planned without problems.
Egypt and Qatar, with support from Türkiye and other allies, continue efforts to prevent the collapse of the fragile truce in Gaza. Tensions have risen following threats from both Israel and Hamas over each side's failure to fully implement the ceasefire agreement, which took effect on January 19.
Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that US envoy Steven Witkoff is expected in Tel Aviv, with Israel ready to move forward on the prisoner deal if hostages are released by Saturday.
Hamas has accused Israel of not meeting the terms of the first phase, especially the humanitarian protocol, which includes providing tents, mobile homes, medical supplies, and heavy equipment.
This led Hamas to suspend the release of three Israeli hostages, which was scheduled for Saturday. In response, Israel’s security cabinet warned that it would resume military operations if the hostages are not released by noon on Saturday.
As tensions grew, talks were held between Qatar’s mediator and Hamas leaders in Doha, followed by a delegation from Hamas traveling to Egypt. The team, led by Khalil Al-Hayya from Gaza, arrived in Cairo to discuss the dispute over non-compliance with the agreement, especially by Israel.
In a statement, Hamas confirmed that Al-Hayya's team has started meetings with Egyptian officials to monitor the ceasefire and the prisoner exchange.
Hamas sources told Asharq Al-Awsat that the meetings focused on proposals to ensure the ceasefire continues and the agreement is fully implemented.
Egyptian and Qatari mediators assured Hamas that the agreement would be upheld and pushed for it to move forward, including the gradual entry of mobile homes and equipment, before the planned release of the three Israeli hostages on Saturday.
Hamas sources stressed that the release of the hostages depends on Israel following the agreement, especially the humanitarian provisions. The sources expect full implementation to begin Thursday, and if Israel complies, the hostages will be released on time.
