US officials are increasingly frustrated by Hamas' partial responses, which attempt to portray acceptance of Witkoff's proposals while actually rejecting key clauses and insisting on changes.
Witkoff's recent statement that Hamas' response was unacceptable, his second public rebuke in 10 days, reflects a hardening stance toward the group. But this toughened tone might also indicate another development: the new proposal was more acceptable to Israel because it dropped several contentious demands seen in earlier drafts.
Unlike previous versions, the current offer does not specify withdrawal timelines, does not call for dismantling humanitarian distribution centers, and makes no commitment to ending the war. This shift suggests that Washington, too, senses Hamas' weakening grip.
Again, caution is warranted. Still, there's an accumulation of warning signs for Hamas: a crumbling hierarchy, loss of control over Gazans, a surprisingly efficient aid supply network in Gaza, and steady military advances, measured, deliberate, and with minimal casualties.
Washington believes that Hamas, cornered and weakened, is in no position to make such sweeping demands. That doesn't mean the White House is ready to endorse every position of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, or that it supports long-term occupation. But Israel's swift acceptance of the updated Witkoff framework was a wise move. It helps secure continued American support for the military campaign and diplomatic cover at the international level.
Meanwhile, on the Hamas side, confusion reigns. There were hints that the group was beginning to understand the dire nature of its situation: its leadership in Qatar is under growing pressure, torn between cries from Gaza's civilians and reports of its own military collapse. Yet full recognition of the situation hasn't taken root. There still appears to be hope in Doha that international pressure from Europe and domestic protests in Israel might yield results. Perhaps a stronger military push will help Hamas realize what has not yet been fully grasped.
