Following Israel’s green light for the Qatari hostage deal proposal, which is essentially the Witkoff framework with some modifications, officials in Israel, the US, and the mediating countries are now awaiting Hamas’s response.
"For the first time, there is real optimism that Hamas will say ‘yes,’" two sources familiar with the talks told The Jerusalem Post. An Israeli official also confirmed that there is a growing belief that this time, Hamas may accept the deal. "Qatar is applying immense pressure on the group," the sources added.
In a Truth Social post published Wednesday morning, former President Donald Trump warned Hamas, saying: "I hope, for the sake of the Middle East, that Hamas takes the deal—because if not, things will only get worse for them, not better."
The current proposal on the table includes the release of 10 Israeli hostages: eight on the first day and two on Day 50, as well as the return of 18 bodies of murdered Israeli hostages. In exchange, there would be a two-month ceasefire, during which negotiations would take place over a permanent end to the war, with each side presenting its demands at the table.
Israel's approval came after a meeting between Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. Multiple sources told The Jerusalem Post that Israel agreed, under certain conditions, to continue talks about ending the war even after the 60-day ceasefire period.
Israel still undecided over terms of IDF withdrawals from Gaza
Regarding an Israeli withdrawal during the ceasefire, two sources noted that negotiations are still ongoing over the scope of the withdrawal and the future deployment of Israeli forces.
On Wednesday, Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar commented on the status of the deal, saying, "We are serious about reaching a hostage deal and a ceasefire. We have accepted the proposals of special envoy Witkoff. There are positive signs of a breakthrough. Our goal is to begin proximity talks as soon as possible."