Israel confirms: 'Most negotiation issues almost resolved'

Itamar Eichner|
An Israeli security source said that most of the issues being discussed in negotiations between Israel and Hamas are "almost resolved," but there is still a dispute over the depth of the perimeter that will remain under Israeli control in the Gaza Strip. While Israel demands to maintain a perimeter of 1.2-1.5 km from the Philadelphia Corridor - which separates Gaza from Egypt - Hamas insists on 800 meters. "This is solvable and will be closed," clarified the source, who noted that there is also progress regarding the number of prisoners to be released as part of the deal, and that "Israel has shown flexibility." His statements were made against the background of the American announcement that Steve Whitkoff, the U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, will arrive in the region.