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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held an important meeting with security chiefs and a negotiating team Sunday, July 21, to discuss the terms of a prisoner exchange and cease-fire deal. As a result of this meeting, it was decided to return to negotiations on July 25.
Atmosphere of Hope and Determination
The meeting, according to sources, lasted several hours and covered a wide range of issues. Despite the 29 comments and amendments made by Hamas to the initial draft of the agreement, the atmosphere of the discussion was positive. Netanyahu instructed the negotiating team to prepare a response to Hamas’ demands, stressing the importance of reaching a compromise.
“The main demands are clear, Israel has formed its position, everyone wants to conclude an agreement,” informed sources said. These words reflect the desire of all participants for a peaceful solution and the release of the hostages.
Key Issues and Requirements
The main demands concern control over Rafai and the Philadelphia Corridor, a strategically important 20-kilometer strip along the Gaza border with Egypt. Measures to prevent the infiltration of terrorists into the northern part of the Gaza Strip are also being discussed.
Previously, Israel refused to respond to Hamas’ comments regarding the Philadelphia Corridor and the Netzarim Operational-Logistic Corridor. Netanyahu insisted on the need to control the return of residents to northern Gaza, fearing that the return of militants would undo all the IDF’s gains since the start of the war.
Support and Prospects
Defense Minister Yoav Galant expressed support for Netanyahu’s decision to resume talks. Galant noted that the IDF’s military successes created a window of opportunity for an agreement and emphasized the importance of unity in the security system to reach an agreement.
In addition, the Minister of Defense wished the Prime Minister a successful trip to the United States, where Netanyahu is scheduled to go on July 22. The trip will also be an important milestone in diplomatic efforts to achieve peace and security in the region.
Continued negotiations and diplomatic efforts give hope that the hostages will soon return home and a peaceful settlement will become a reality for all parties. This is reported by Time Ukraine Israel, referring to the Vesti.co.il source.
