(MENAFN) Following the ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel in Lebanon, reports indicate that conditions are becoming favorable for a prisoner exchange deal that could result in a ceasefire in Gaza and the eventual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the region.

Several factors are contributing to the possibility of such a deal, including the ceasefire in Lebanon, growing internal pressure in Israel, and shifts in public opinion. Around two-thirds of Israelis now support ending the Gaza conflict in exchange for the release of prisoners, with 56% of right-wing supporters also in favor. Analysts believe that Israel’s failure to meet its goals in Gaza, coupled with its inability to establish an alternative governance structure in the Strip, makes a prisoner exchange deal increasingly likely. The issue of Israeli detainees in Gaza has become a major challenge for the Israeli government.

The U.S. stance remains fluid, with President Joe Biden’s administration aiming for a breakthrough in Gaza following its success in Lebanon, while President-elect Donald Trump’s team hopes to resolve the matter before taking office. While Israel has expressed its willingness to conclude a deal, no serious proposals have yet been put forward. Israeli and American media reports suggest that Israel’s security establishment is working on a potential plan, although negotiations remain stalled. According to Yedioth Ahronoth, recent developments offer an opportunity for Hamas to quickly reach an agreement with Israel. Israeli officials believe that there is a chance for a breakthrough in detainee negotiations, and they are urging the Israeli government to seize the moment and secure a temporary ceasefire in Gaza.

Axios reported that Israeli security leaders believe Prime Minister Netanyahu should adjust his approach to finalize a deal in Gaza, and Netanyahu himself has indicated that conditions are now more favorable for a prisoner exchange. He stated that Israel is prepared to sign a ceasefire agreement but is not willing to end the war completely. Meanwhile, the White House has announced that the U.S. is actively working to secure the release of hostages, using diplomatic pressure and sanctions on Hamas. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized that Hamas is the key to any potential ceasefire, despite some changes in the group's stance following the ceasefire in Lebanon.

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