Gaza Ceasefire Deal Near as U.S. Pushes New Proposal

The new U.S. framework includes a 60-day ceasefire, the release of 10 Israeli hostages in phases, and Palestinian prisoner exchanges, with further steps tied to negotiations for a permanent truce. Hamas initially welcomed the proposal, announcing support through its negotiators in Doha, including Palestinian-American intermediary Bishara Bahbah.

However, Israel quickly rejected parts of the deal, accusing Hamas of misrepresenting U.S. terms. Witkoff called the group’s initial response “disappointing and unacceptable,” but clarified that misunderstandings contributed to the impasse.

U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff presents a new partial deal to Israel and Hamas:

• 9 living hostages + 18 bodies to be released
• 60-day ceasefire proposed
• IDF withdrawal from some Gaza areas
• UN to resume aid distribution

Timing and Guarantees

The crux of the deadlock lies in hostage release sequencing and ceasefire guarantees. Israel wants all 10 hostages released on day one. Hamas insists on phased release, fearing a repeat of the March breach where Israel resumed fighting mid-truce.

A senior Israeli official explained the U.S. is seeking language that ensures Hamas won’t lose leverage, while assuring Israel it’s not pre-committing to halting the war indefinitely.

Sources say Hamas is also motivated by concerns over diminishing control of Gaza’s aid distribution, as Israel tests new delivery mechanisms. If a deal is reached, Hamas could regain influence over the humanitarian pipeline.

While a breakthrough appears close, negotiators still need to finalize hostage and prisoner lists and Israeli force withdrawal stages. A compromise is said to hinge on whether Hamas yields on guarantees, and Netanyahu softens his stance on sequencing.