Israel awaits Hamas' response to a comprehensive framework developed by United States Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff's negotiating team for an interim hostage release agreement and Gaza ceasefire. Israel approved the new framework two weeks ago and delivered its response to Witkoff and his team, but Hamas has yet to provide its complete answer.
Sources involved in the diplomatic efforts report that Hamas requested additional clarifications and textual modifications last week, postponing its response. These sources suggest the delay may have been strategic, designed to await outcomes from the Iran conflict.
Intensive pressure has been applied to Hamas over the past 24 hours to deliver an answer and move the process forward. The United States demonstrates measured optimism, evident in statements from Witkoff and White House officials, particularly President Donald Trump himself, as well as in private communications with Israel. An American source indicates that direct negotiations prove significantly more effective than those mediated through Egypt and Qatar.
Nevertheless, the source emphasized that both nations remain crucial in conveying the stark reality to Hamas – that the organization now operates with its back against the wall, devoid of supporters, alongside the deteriorating conditions facing Gaza's Palestinian population. Should momentum prove positive, delegations from both parties will likely travel to Cairo or Doha (with both capitals competing for hosting rights) to finalize remaining details. Witkoff may also participate in these negotiations.
Framework specifics
Available information indicates a structured agreement involving the immediate release of 8 living hostages and 6 deceased individuals upon deal implementation, with an additional 2 hostages released during the ceasefire period. The proposed ceasefire extends 60 days, during which parties would negotiate war termination terms, including the release of all remaining hostages.
American negotiators proposed language referencing their guarantee of "the commitment of all involved parties to achieve war conclusion and Gaza rehabilitation." Hamas has reportedly abandoned previous demands, including explicit Israeli and American commitments to end hostilities, along with requirements for extensive Israeli withdrawal shortly after the deal commencement.
An Arab source participating in negotiations told Israel Hayom that the Israel-Iran war significantly impacts current discussions, with Hamas leadership receiving clear messages from mediating parties. These communications indicate that with Iranian hostilities concluded, the absence of a Gaza agreement will trigger unrestricted Israeli military operations against Hamas, free from American or international constraints.
The message continues that Hamas must choose immediate agreement to preserve organizational remnants or face complete elimination. While acknowledging potential Israeli costs, they remain prepared to pay such prices.
An Israeli source characterizes Hamas as "looking back and seeing no remaining supporters." This assessment means only Qatar, hosting most Hamas senior leadership, maintains conditional support, though even Qatar's international standing has suffered due to its exposed involvement with Hamas' military operations.
The source explains Hamas faces the option of accepting the proposed agreement to avoid continued combat, though even temporary relief would prevent rearming due to resource limitations. "This generates hope that Hamas leadership will finally abandon unrealistic positions," the source states, describing such an agreement as completing the dual mission of hostage liberation and Hamas defeat.
However, the source cautions that cornered circumstances with minimal escape options might trigger desperate "all-or-nothing" decisions and resistance until complete defeat, consistent with previous military wing declarations.
