Negotiations for a hostage deal are intensifying, with a diplomatic official noting "substantial strides in shaping the American proposal meant to underpin an agreement." Recent hours have seen active discussions on these developments and the question of sending an Israeli delegation to Cairo.
The core obstacle is Hamas' demand for assurances that the ceasefire will persist beyond the initial 60 days. During talks in Washington, Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer and envoy Steve Witkoff proposed at least two solutions to resolve this issue, with Israel demonstrating significant openness.
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump shared on TRUTH: "My Representatives had a long and productive meeting with the Israelis today on Gaza. Israel has agreed to the necessary conditions to finalize the 60 Day CEASEFIRE, during which time we will work with all parties to end the War. The Qataris and Egyptians, who have worked very hard to help bring Peace, will deliver this final proposal. I hope, for the good of the Middle East, that Hamas takes this Deal, because it will not get better — IT WILL ONLY GET WORSE."
Hamas, in turn, has softened its stance on key issues it once rejected. The terror group agreed to share details on the hostages' status, permit international monitoring of food distribution in its controlled areas, and show flexibility regarding its future role. Yet, talks with senior IDF officials and security experts highlighted fears that the intense pressure on Hamas and its heavy losses could endanger the hostages, driven by anarchy and conflicts with other armed groups and organized clans.
This breakthrough has paved the way for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming Washington visit next week. The trip primarily aims to celebrate the outcome of the war with Iran and align on further actions. Should a ceasefire be declared during the visit, it would bolster Trump's global image as a peacemaker and advance Netanyahu's goals of ending the Gaza conflict and expanding the Abraham Accords.
Still, Gaza's challenges persist. Hamas' push for guarantees that the ceasefire will last until the war's end conflicts with Israel's refusal to accept Hamas' terms – disarmament and exile of its leaders. The current proposal postpones these contentious issues to the 60-day ceasefire negotiation period.
Under the ceasefire, 10 living hostages and about 15 bodies will be freed. Eight living hostages will be released early in the ceasefire, with the rest mid-term. In return, Israel will release terrorists from its prisons based on ratios from past deals. Hamas must provide updates on the remaining hostages' health and ensure their well-being. Israel insists on Red Cross visits and medical care, which Hamas has yet to approve.
The plan allows for continued and increased aid deliveries to Hamas-controlled areas. Israel demands international supervision to prevent theft by Hamas, a condition Hamas resists, claiming UN personnel should oversee distribution. Hamas accuses Israel of inciting armed clans to steal supplies.
Israel's withdrawal will be phased and limited, tied to progress in final agreement talks. During the 60-day ceasefire, only a minimal pullback will occur, per IDF guidelines. Israel will maintain control over the main borders and routes inside the Gaza Strip, namely, the Philadelphi Corridor, the Morag Axis, the perimeter, and the northern boundary near Sderot.
The second phase envisions a multinational force – including Arab, American, and other troops – taking over security and policing in Gaza. A key hurdle is the refusal of all parties to deploy while Hamas retains its weapons. No consensus exists on the tunnel issue, as Hamas refuses to share maps or surrender heavy arms like rockets, mortars, and explosives.
While progress is notable, caution is warranted. Past ceasefires have emboldened Hamas to stiffen its demands. An Arab official close to Palestinian internal talks notes Hamas' insistence on a role in Gaza's future governance. Meanwhile, Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia, are pushing a broader regional deal for enhanced security and stability. With Iran weakened and Qatar treading carefully, opposition to this deal has been weakened.
