Fact Check: Hamas offered to release all hostages

Fact Check: "Hamas offered to release all hostages"

What We Know

The claim that "Hamas offered to release all hostages" has some basis in recent negotiations and proposals made by Hamas. Reports indicate that Hamas has indeed proposed various terms for hostage releases in exchange for ceasefire agreements and other concessions. For instance, on April 17, 2025, a senior official from Hamas stated that the group was interested in a comprehensive deal to end the war in Gaza, which would involve swapping all Israeli hostages for Palestinians imprisoned in Israel (Reuters).

Additionally, a proposal made in November 2023 referred to as "everyone for everyone" or "all for all" suggested a complete release of all hostages held by Hamas in exchange for all Palestinians detained in Israel (Wikipedia). More recently, on May 17, 2025, Hamas agreed to release nine hostages in exchange for a 60-day truce and the release of Palestinian prisoners, indicating ongoing negotiations regarding hostage situations (BBC).

Analysis

While there are multiple instances where Hamas has indicated a willingness to release hostages, the context and conditions surrounding these offers are crucial for understanding their implications. The proposal for a comprehensive deal to release all hostages is contingent upon significant concessions from Israel, such as the release of Palestinian prisoners and a ceasefire. This indicates that while Hamas has made offers to release hostages, these offers are tied to broader political negotiations and are not unconditional.

The reliability of the sources reporting on these negotiations varies. Major news outlets like Reuters and BBC provide credible coverage based on official statements and ongoing negotiations. However, the situation is fluid, and the statements from Hamas should be interpreted with caution, as they may be influenced by the group's strategic interests in the ongoing conflict.

Furthermore, the complexity of the hostage situation is underscored by the fact that Hamas continues to hold a significant number of hostages, and the Israeli government has been adamant about its demands for proof of life and detailed information about all remaining hostages (BBC). This suggests that while Hamas has made offers, the actual release of all hostages remains uncertain and contingent upon various factors.

Conclusion

The claim that "Hamas offered to release all hostages" is Partially True. While Hamas has indeed proposed terms for the release of hostages, including offers for a comprehensive exchange, these proposals are not straightforward and are contingent upon various political negotiations and conditions. Therefore, while there is truth to the claim, it lacks the nuance necessary to fully understand the complexities involved in the hostage situation.