Hamas approves mediators' proposal to resume negotiations

By Nour Abuaisha and Ikram Kouachi

GAZA CITY, Palestine (AA) - Palestinian group Hamas on Friday said it has approved a mediators' proposal to resume negotiations by releasing an Israeli soldier with American citizenship and returning the bodies of four dual-national Israelis.

"The Hamas leadership delegation received a proposal from the mediators on Thursday to resume negotiations. The movement responded with responsibility and positivity, submitting its reply early Friday," the group said in a statement.

Hamas confirmed that its response included the “release of the Israeli soldier Edan Alexander, who holds American citizenship, in addition to the bodies of four others with dual nationalities."

The group reiterated its "full readiness to begin negotiations and reach a comprehensive agreement on the issues of the second phase," urging Israel to “fulfill its full commitments."