A potential ceasefire-hostage deal for Gaza is currently on the table, according to US special envoy Steve Witkoff. The proposal involves releasing half of the living hostages and half of those who have died in exchange for a temporary ceasefire, paving the way for negotiations on a comprehensive agreement to end the war.
Witkoff stated, “Israel will agree to a temporary ceasefire/hostage deal that would see half of the living and half of the deceased return and lead to substantive negotiations to find a path to a permanent ceasefire, which I have agreed to preside over. That deal is on the table. Hamas should take it.” However, Hamas has yet to accept the deal, and Witkoff’s comments mark the first time he has said he would preside over negotiations for an end to the war during the temporary ceasefire.
Meanwhile, Israel is preparing for an “unprecedented attack” on Gaza, with the Israeli military issuing evacuation orders for southern Gaza, including the city of Khan Younis and surrounding areas. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) has described the Khan Younis governorate as a “dangerous fighting zone that has been warned several times.” The evacuation zone extends to the Gaza-Egypt border, where Israeli forces have occupied the Philadelphi Corridor.
Key Developments:
- Israeli Military Plans: Israel plans to occupy 75% of Gaza within two months as part of its new offensive, which would force over two million Palestinians into a quarter of the coastal enclave.
- International Pressure: Israel is facing growing international pressure, with the UK pausing trade talks and sanctioning extremist settlers in the West Bank. Canada and France have threatened sanctions, and the European Union is reviewing its landmark Association Agreement with Israel.
- US Support: US Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem reiterated US support for Israel, meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu and expressing appreciation for his conduct of the war.
Reactions:
- Hamas: A Palestinian official close to the negotiations told newsmen that Hamas has agreed to Witkoff’s proposal, but did not provide additional details about the deal.
- Israel: Prime Minister Netanyahu said getting the hostages released is a top priority, stating, “I very much hope we’ll have something to announce on that front. And if not today, then tomorrow – we are not giving up.” However, two Israeli officials later clarified that there was “no progress” in the negotiations.
It reminds to be seen whether Netanyahu will shift his hard stance on the war in the wake of the United States’ Trump accusing him of flagrant disregard for human lives.