A senior Israeli official revealed key details Wednesday about a potential agreement for the release of hostages held by the Hamas terrorist organization, saying the deal is "within reach," though negotiations remain complex and protracted.
"We in the government are committed to a framework for a hostage release," the official said, emphasizing that despite differing political opinions in Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is leading efforts to advance the proposal. "It's not simple. Negotiating with Hamas isn't easy or short, and I can't give a timeline, but a deal is achievable."
According to the official, the current framework outlines the release of eight hostages on the first day and two more on the 50th day. Hamas' acceptance of the Witkoff framework signals a shift in its position, which the official attributed to "intense military pressure and significant US involvement, along with Hamas' desire to reach a framework. Qatar's involvement, driven by its relationships and interests, has also evolved."
The official also acknowledged internal disagreements within the Israeli Diplomatic-Security Cabinet regarding concessions, particularly over whether Israel should withdraw from areas captured during Operation Gideon's Chariots. "Some cabinet members said not to give up any of the territory," the official recounted. "I told them, 'Just say you don't want a deal.'"
The proposed deal does not include a commitment to end the war, the official clarified. A temporary 60-day ceasefire would be established during which talks for a permanent truce would take place. "There is a gap between the sides. If we can bridge it, great. There may be efforts by various parties to help reach that."
On the issue of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the official said the cabinet was again divided, but argued that such assistance was essential. "Without humanitarian aid, we couldn't conduct the war. It also made things easier with the Germans and other countries seeking to support us," the official said. "I told the Europeans that without the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), there would be famine in the Strip. Israel agreed to a supplementary response it didn't like, because of the reality on the ground. From what I'm hearing from COGAT (Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories), we currently need both efforts."
Regarding the humanitarian zone, the senior official said, "There are various ideas about how we should proceed if there is no deal."
