Mediators unveiled a fresh info - outline for the proposed agreement was made public

Negotiations resumed in Paris yesterday, marking a significant step forward in efforts to broker a new deal between Israel and Hamas. This evening, the outline for the proposed agreement was made public, with the War Cabinet set to review and likely approve the agreed-upon lines during tonight's session.

Following the conclusion of yesterday's meeting, mediators reached a consensus on the fundamental principles of the deal, including the release of abductees and compensation for Israel. Speaking to News 12, a senior political official expressed optimism, stating, "There is significant progress and a solid basis for discussion, from which I will be able to start building the negotiating structures and reach agreements." Additionally, another senior government official affirmed that the proposed outline would likely garner government approval.

Key components of the emerging outline include the release of approximately 40 abductees, spanning various demographics such as children, women, soldiers, adults, and individuals requiring medical attention. This release is contingent upon a six-week cessation of hostilities, with each day of respite corresponding to the release of one abductee. Furthermore, hundreds of "light" and "heavy" prisoners are slated for release, albeit fewer than initially demanded by Hamas. Additionally, there are plans for a redeployment of forces in the Gaza Strip and the relocation of women and children to the northern region of the territory.

Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed the ongoing talks and the situation in Rafah, stating, "We are working to obtain another outline for the release of our hostages, as well as the completion of the elimination of the Hamas battalions in Rafah." He emphasized the necessity of a combined approach involving military pressure and firm negotiations to achieve the outlined goals.

In parallel with negotiations, Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi conducted a situation assessment in the northern Gaza Strip, underscoring the interplay between battlefield successes and diplomatic efforts. He highlighted the role of military achievements in influencing negotiations for the release of abductees.

Looking ahead, the War Cabinet is expected to authorize the head of the Mossad, Dedi Barnea, to engage with mediators and attend forthcoming meetings abroad. The precise location of these meetings remains undisclosed.

The proposed ceasefire, which Israel is poised to agree to, aims to provide a window for broader negotiations. The ultimate goal is to broker a comprehensive deal that extends beyond the ceasefire period. Previous agreements have followed a similar trajectory, with initial releases paving the way for subsequent negotiations.

Brokers aspire to finalize all details within the next two weeks, with a view to launching the deal before the onset of Ramadan on March 10th.

Throughout negotiations, discussions will encompass various aspects of the deal, including prisoner releases and IDF withdrawal lines. Israel's stance on maintaining certain release criteria underscores the complexities inherent in the negotiations.

As talks progress, flexibility is anticipated, particularly regarding the return of civilians to different areas of the Gaza Strip. Notably, Hamas seeks assurances regarding Israeli military activities during the ceasefire period, emphasizing the sensitive nature of the negotiations.

During a meeting held in Paris on Friday night, the United States and mediators unveiled a fresh and refined outline for a potential deal aimed at securing the release of hostages. According to two sources familiar with the discussions, this development may pave the way for more detailed negotiations toward reaching an agreement.

A source, privy to the specifics of the talks, expressed optimism, stating that the new proposal is something "it is possible to work" with. A senior official within the American administration, speaking to Wala!, acknowledged that progress had been made during the talks in Paris, although emphasizing that there is still significant ground to cover in order to reach a final agreement.

The Israeli delegation, comprising high-ranking officials such as the head of Mossad, Dadi Barnea, and the head of Shin Bet, Ronan Bar, along with representatives from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), including Major General Nitzan Alon and Major General Oren Seter, returned to Israel early Saturday morning.