Hamas offers to release all captives for end to Israel’s war on Gaza
Al JazeeraFEB 21
Hamas Frees Final Six Hostages in First Phase of Cease-Fire
Above: Tal Shoham (L) and Avera Mengistu. Image copyright: Ali Jadallah/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Palestine narrative
The cease-fire deal had paused the war, but as the first phase ended rather successfully, Hamas is ready to move to the second phase and release the remaining captives if the right concessions are made. However, true peace can only come through recognizing Palestinian sovereignty and ending the blockade on Gaza.
Pro-Israel narrative
Israel can only agree to the cease-fire deal's second phase if Hamas releases all the hostages, the group's military and governing capacities are destroyed, and the Palestinian Authority is barred from the post-war management of the Gaza Strip.