US investigative journalist Seymour Hersh reported that Hamas has been offered clemency for the release of hostages.
It is thought that the militant group is holding around 240 hostages. Israel, whose military claims it has encircled Gaza City, was ready to continue its bombardment on Hamas despite demands for a truce or brief pauses.
US investigative journalist Seymour Hersh reported on Substack that the political leadership of Hamas has been offered "clemency" in exchange for the release of the hostages held in Gaza during covert negotiations with Israel.
The journalist was informed by sources that the offer was made to the political wing of the group, who maintain they were not directly involved in the preparations for the October 7 Hamas attack.
“The thought was that if they agree to try their own people and order them executed, they will be given their lives while also exonerating Israel for the war,” an American official was quoted as saying.
The journalist ...