This evening, a diplomatic representative outlined the forthcoming procedure for the release of a group of hostages held by Hamas, scheduled to commence tomorrow. In the initial phase, the families of the hostages will not be given advance notice of the releases, citing a lack of trust in Hamas. The official emphasized the avoidance of causing distress to the families and explained that once the hostages are in the authorities’ custody, families will be promptly informed and brought to the designated meeting point at the hospital. The first day’s events will serve as a model for subsequent actions.
Details on the release process were elucidated, with the official explaining that names would be received in the evening, and the following morning, Hamas would start assembling the individuals set for release. The protocol involves transporting them to the Red Cross for transit. Once physical identification aligns with the provided lists, clearance will be granted to transfer the released individuals and transport the Israeli hostages to hospitals.
A complication arose when Hamas insisted on categorizing the majority of female hostages as “soldiers,” regardless of their civilian status. This demand complicated the release process, as it implied Hamas asserting the right to hold IDF soldiers as prisoners of war. Israeli authorities, however, rejected this classification, asserting that children up to 19 years old are considered minors, and all women, unless confirmed as soldiers during the kidnapping, are included. The Israeli estimate is that over 50 hostages, encompassing women and children, will ultimately be released.
The initial target of 50 hostages was considered crucial, with President Biden intervening to pressure Qatar, and the CIA head explaining the significance to the Emir. The agreement includes provisions for potential future releases, indicating a belief that the releases may exceed the initial count. The incentive for Hamas appears to be the length of the ceasefire, initially demanded for a month but eventually settling for four weeks. This “incentive” is seen as a potential catalyst for the release of more hostages.
There is a belief within Israel that Hamas might release up to 80 hostages. While Hamas controls the fate of over 200 hostages, the focus is on a specific number expected to be released during the ceasefire. The agreement ensures that mothers and children will not be separated during the release, but no such arrangement exists for fathers held alongside their families, raising the possibility of disparate outcomes for family members.
Regarding the daily release count, the source specified a minimum of ten for the first three days, with the remaining hostages released on the fourth day. The Qataris, Egyptians, and Americans serve as guarantors of the agreement, ensuring adherence to the stipulated release numbers.
Determining the individuals to be released involves a unilateral decision by Israel for the terrorists and by Hamas for the Israeli hostages. Israel maintains the belief that most hostages held by Hamas are still alive. The security establishment anticipates that renewed hostilities following the releases will increase pressure for additional agreements.
{Matzav.com Israel}
