Israel is currently waiting for Hamas’s response to the latest US-backed proposal for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. Former US President Donald Trump is prepared to give a direct assurance to the Palestinian group, pledging his commitment to bring the ongoing war to an end. The US is putting significant pressure on Israel to agree to a ceasefire before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to Washington.
Crucially, the main obstacle to a deal is the conditions for ending the war. Israel insists on the right to restart its military operations against Hamas, while Hamas is demanding a permanent cessation of all fighting, which started with the October 7, 2023, attack. Trump’s reported message to Hamas includes an offer to continue negotiations on the war’s termination, even after a temporary ceasefire, and his commitment to facilitating a lasting agreement. This is dependent on Hamas accepting the Witkoff framework, which outlines a phased release of hostages and bodies over a 60-day ceasefire. Mediators have given assurances that neither side will resume fighting while talks continue, although Israel has not committed to avoiding renewed combat if talks fail.
Israeli officials are hoping that Hamas will respond soon, potentially allowing proximity talks to start soon. Hamas is currently discussing the US-backed proposal with other groups. The proposed deal includes releasing living hostages and bodies in stages over a 60-day period. Netanyahu held a meeting with a small group of ministers to discuss the deal’s terms. The government and the negotiating team are now preparing to address the complicated task of deciding the order in which the hostages will be released, considering the captives’ medical condition and the sensitivity of the matter. Israeli has described all the remaining hostages as “humanitarian.” US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee is optimistic the deal can be finalized but emphasized the critical role of Hamas. The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led terrorists attacked Israel, killing 1,200 people. Palestinian groups are still holding 50 hostages, including the bodies of at least 28 people.