Sinwar stalls hostage negotiations, waits for Iran attack

Officials say Hamas leader hopes for a regional war to erupt after Tehran avenges its IRGC members slain in Damascus; he may get his wish in if all Iran axis groups unite against Israel
Israeli officials believe Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is stalling and delaying his response to the latest proposal in the negotiations to free hostages.
They believe there is not sufficient pressure being put on him to free the Israelis being held by Hamas and that he is waiting to see how Iran intends to strike Israel in retaliation for the killing of a senior IRGC commander in Damascus, in a strike attributed to Israel.
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יחיא סינוואר
יחיא סינוואר
Hamas leader in Gaza Yahya Sinwar
(Photo: EPA)
An extreme Iranian response could lead to an Israeli retaliation, and bring about a regional war, which would be the culmination of his intentions and desires, in a united front against Israel.
"Hamas may deliver a negative response today or tomorrow," an Israeli official said. "We believe Sinwar hopes for a withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and could achieve an end to the war, a full withdrawal of IDF forces and an influx of humanitarian aid."
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פלסטינים חוזרים לחאן יונס
פלסטינים חוזרים לחאן יונס
Palestinians return to Khan Younis after IDF withdraws
A spokesperson for the government said Hamas would be turning down a very reasonable proposal that would bring a lull in the fighting. The War Cabinet is scheduled to meet later on Thursday although it may not be discussing the hostage release talks and instead concentrate on the threat of an Iranian attack.
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