NBC: Israel Accepts Mediators' Proposal for Hostage Deal with Hamas at the Paris Summit

 In a significant development following the Paris summit, NBC reports that Israel has agreed to the mediators' proposal for a hostage deal. The proposal, set to be sent to Hamas today, outlines a plan for the staged release of abductees. The deal is contingent upon a prolonged ceasefire and the delivery of aid shipments to Gaza.

The summit, attended by key figures including the heads of Mossad and Shin Bet, aimed to break the impasse and initiate a process leading to further agreements. Israel's initiative for a humanitarian deal, encompassing the release of vulnerable individuals, was not outright rejected by the mediators.

The Cabinet will convene tonight to receive updates from Mossad Chief Dedi Barnea and Shin Bet Head Ronan Bar on the summit discussions. Israel believes that a humanitarian deal could be the key to unlocking further negotiations and breaking the current deadlock.

The proposed deal, aimed at addressing humanitarian concerns, may overshadow Hamas's demand for an end to the war—an insistence that Israel outright rejects. Qatar and Egypt, serving as mediators, are expected to present the deal's outline to Hamas.

Notably, American pressure on Qatar during the summit could play a pivotal role. Israeli sources suggest that if Hamas agrees to the deal, it would involve a significant risk, as Israel might continue military operations even after implementing the agreement.

John Kirby, the spokesperson for the US National Security Council, described the talks as constructive and serious. While cautious optimism is present due to American pressure, the ultimate decision rests with Yahya Sinwar, the leader of Hamas.

After the summit, political officials described the meeting as "good" and "constructive." Senior Hamas official Muhammad Nazal confirmed the initiation of new negotiations on the prisoner exchange deal, dismissing media reports on specific details as attempts by the Israeli government to relieve pressure on affected families.

The summit, led by CIA Director William Burns, included key figures such as Mossad Chief Dedi Barnea, Shin Bet Head Ronan Bar, acting major general Nitzan Alon, head of Egyptian intelligence Abbas Kamel, and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed Al Thani. While the government termed the meeting "constructive," it acknowledged significant gaps that will be addressed in additional mutual meetings throughout the week.

Saudi Al-Hadad network reported a "breakthrough" in negotiations, suggesting a ceasefire in two stages with simultaneous prisoner exchanges and aid introductions. However, Israeli authorities have been cautious in confirming these reports, emphasizing that the ball is now in Hamas's court. Intensive meetings between the parties are anticipated to begin as soon as mediators receive the green light from Hamas—potentially as early as this week.