Jerusalem reportedly insisting living hostages be released in 1st stage of proposed ceasefire; Netanyahu said to alarm negotiators with comments on determination to continue war The post Hamas said willing to free only 22 of 34 living hostages demanded by Israel in deal appeared first on The Times of Israel.

While Hamas has refused to release all the requested 34 living hostages, the terror group has reportedly upped the number of security prisoners it demands released.

During Hamas' surprise incursion into southern Israel in October last year, the militants killed at least 1,200 people and took around 250 others hostage and brought them to Gaza.View on euronews

White House National security communications adviser John Kirby says US is "actively working" to broker a ceasefire-hostage agreement between Israel and Hamas, but the terror group continues throwing up obstacles.

Although Israel and Hamas have expressed optimism that progress was being made toward a deal, sticking points remain over the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners and the withdrawal of Israe

CAIRO — Israel and Hamas appear closer than they have been in months to agreeing to a ceasefire that could wind down the 14-month war in Gaza and bring home dozens of people held hostage there. But the sides have come close before, only to have talks collapse over various disagreements. This round of negotiations also faces hurdles.

Israel has demanded the release of 34 hostages in the first phase of their ceasefire deal with Hamas. In the list, 11 hostages are touted by Hamas as Israeli soldiers, who do not meet the criteria to

Hamas and Israel continue to exchange blame for the delay in reaching a ceasefire agreement. Both sides accuse the other of obstructing progress, while mediators urge for immediate resolution to ease the humanitarian crisis.