A significant development has emerged in the indirect negotiations with Hamas, according to an Israeli source familiar with the matter who confirmed that over the weekend, the terror organization showed flexibility by agreeing for the first time to discuss releasing an additional group of five living hostages without receiving the Bohler terms – a long-term ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.
Israeli officials, however, are rejecting Hamas' proposal to release only five living hostages, instead demanding that the organization adhere to the framework presented by US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff. This framework stipulated that at the commencement of discussions on phase B, Hamas would release half of the living hostages in a single release. Jerusalem is specifically demanding the release of 11 living hostages at the start of these talks. Under this framework, the second half of the living hostages would be released upon the conclusion of phase B discussions, which could potentially last approximately 50 days – the estimated duration of the second pause in fighting.
In communications with mediating parties, Israel has emphasized its position that verification mechanisms must be in place to ensure humanitarian supplies reach Gaza residents rather than Hamas. Furthermore, Israel is demanding guarantees from the mediators for the safety and well-being of all hostages during the pause in fighting and subsequent negotiations. "From our perspective, all hostages are in a humanitarian condition and the mediators need to verify they will not be harmed," the senior Israeli official stated.
The official emphasized that Operation Strength and Sword, combined with restrictions on supplies entering Gaza, has been the catalyst for Hamas' newfound flexibility. According to the official, prior to the IDF operation that began two weeks ago, Hamas consistently reverted to the "Bohler framework," which would have allowed the terror organization to maintain its presence in Gaza under a truce agreement. "The combination of military and logistical pressure has led Hamas to be willing for the first time to discuss releasing five living hostages," the source explained.
