But the two most widest gaps are Hamas’ demand that the IDF withdraw from the corridor it created south of Gaza City, which prevents the return of Palestinians to the north of the Strip. The other sticking point is Hamas’s demand that the next phase of the deal, which could include release of soldiers, includes a permanent ceasefire.
Behind the scenes: The hostage deal is a political hot potato in Israel with Netanyahu’s ultranationalist coalition partners objecting to any deal that will include a mass release of Palestinian prisoners and that could lead to a permanent ceasefire.
Once again Israel prioritizes ongoing ethnic cleansing over saving the hostages and a permanent ceasefire.