This is John Batchel, conversation with colleague David Diyud of the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, about the Gaza conflict.

David is looking at the hostages. He's looking at the combat situation on the ground.

He's looking at Hamas' ability to resolve the conflict over the exchanging the hostages for a ceasefire.

Are we closer? David doubts it.

Here's David Diyud on what we know most recently about names

have been questioned, released, of hostages to be released, living or dead,

and David's hesitation to believe that a deal is at hand. More of this

tonight. Yesterday, there were reports in Arab media outlets, and I think the BBC as well,

on the potential names of hostages to be released, but Hamas is insisting on retaining some

hostages, living hostages, to ensure

the continuation of the ceasefire.

So they're not giving up their bargaining chips entirely.

There have been disagreements, points of disagreements on the exact details of what the

ceasefire would entail between them and the Israelis.

So, again, it's very stop and go.

And every time we think we've reached the finish line, it appears that we're far from it.

And this is why from the outset, I've cautioned against undue optimism when it comes to this deal.

Bill, you have a question for David.