Part 3/10:
Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s diplomatic mission in the Middle East is ongoing, aiming to broker a ceasefire. While progress appears slow, officials state that gaps between Israel and Hamas are narrowing. However, major hurdles persist, including demands from Hamas for the release of a significant number of prisoners, which Israel rejects.
Negotiations potentially could result in a six-week ceasefire and the release of about 40 hostages—ranging from women to critically ill men—in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Key sticking points involve Hamas's demands to choose prisoners and the inclusion of a permanent ceasefire in future negotiations.