Hamas Agrees to Release 10 Hostages as Part of Gaza Cease-Fire Talks

Hamas announced on July 9 that it has agreed to release 10 hostages as part of its efforts to work in a “positive spirit” with mediators to reach a cease-fire in Gaza, while noting that other key points remain under discussion, including the flow of aid and Israeli troop withdrawals.
“As part of its commitment to the success of the ongoing efforts, the movement has demonstrated the necessary flexibility and agreed to the release of 10 prisoners,” Hamas said in a statement, according to a translation of the group’s remarks by Al Jazeera.
Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, accused Israel of being reluctant to make concessions in talks to bring about a cease-fire in the long-running conflict, which was sparked when Hamas launched a surprise attack against Israeli communities on Oct. 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking hostage around 250 more….