Bethlehem – Ma’an – The negotiations in Qatar have not yet reached the stage of discussing the names of Palestinian prisoners. Israel is currently awaiting Hamas's response to a new proposal presented by mediators, which includes revised maps and new exchange formulas—offering more Palestinian prisoners in return for each Israeli captive.
Palestinians, however, are demanding the release of several prominent leaders imprisoned in Israel, foremost among them Marwan Barghouti, who is serving five life sentences and an additional 40 years.
According to Yedioth Ahronoth, Palestinian sources said that Hamas does not intend to compromise on securing Barghouti’s release, although Israel has clarified that his name has not yet been officially brought up in the talks.
One source stated: “Yahya Sinwar personally promised Marwan Barghouti’s wife, Fadwa, that he would secure his release—even swearing on the Quran,” adding that the Gaza leadership considers Barghouti a core bargaining chip that must not be given up.
Marwan Barghouti, a senior figure in Fatah, enjoys widespread popularity in the West Bank, and is seen by many Palestinians as a leading contender to succeed Mahmoud Abbas.
The report also speculates that if released, Barghouti might be deported to Qatar or a third country, though Palestinian sources assert he could still exert significant political influence from abroad.
“Barghouti could lead the PLO even from Qatar,” one Palestinian source said. “He’s the only figure capable of uniting the Palestinian people. He reminds everyone of Yasser Arafat—his wisdom, determination, and charisma.”
Terms of the Proposed Agreement
The proposed deal reportedly includes:
- A 60-day ceasefire.
- The release of roughly half of the living Israeli captives: 10 living hostages and 18 bodies.
- Eight hostages would be released on day one, two on day 50.
- Three additional rounds would involve the return of the deceased over the two-month period.
- The release of an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners.
- A substantial increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
- Israeli flexibility regarding a military withdrawal, including from the Morag Corridor in southern Gaza.
Israeli Political Dynamics
An Israeli political source claimed yesterday that Hamas is stalling despite the new proposal mediated between the two sides.
“The Israeli delegation has gone a long way. We’re nearing a decisive point in the negotiations, but Hamas is holding up the talks over the exchange framework,” the source said.
Nonetheless, Israel is considering sending a high-level delegation to Doha if Hamas agrees to discuss the core issues.
The Israeli delegation could travel next week, possibly alongside U.S. envoy Brett McGurk, if he arrives in the Qatari capital.
While the identities of the Israeli delegates are still unconfirmed, potential names include:
- Minister Ron Dermer
- Mossad chief David Barnea
- National Security Council head Tzachi Hanegbi
- Deputy Shin Bet director "S."
