Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed his negotiating team to resume talks for the release of hostages, his office confirmed on Sunday. The decision comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts, including a US-backed proposal to extend the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Intensive Discussions on Hostage Release
According to the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), Netanyahu held an in-depth discussion on the hostage situation, involving key negotiators and top security officials. Following the meeting, he directed the team to prepare for continued negotiations based on responses from mediators.
The discussions revolve around the Witkoff proposal, which seeks the immediate release of 11 living hostages and the return of half of the deceased hostages held by Hamas.
US-Led Ceasefire Extension Proposal
The White House announced on Saturday that the US had introduced a “bridge” proposal aimed at extending the ongoing Israel-Hamas ceasefire beyond Ramadan and Passover. The extension would provide more time to negotiate a potential long-term peace agreement.
US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and National Security Council official Eric Trager presented the proposal in Doha, Qatar, last Wednesday. The plan suggests:
- Hamas would release living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, based on a pre-established formula.
- The phase-one ceasefire would be extended, allowing greater humanitarian aid into Gaza.
- The US would push for a durable peace agreement during the ceasefire period.
Pressure on Hamas to Respond
Witkoff emphasized that mediators, including Qatar and Egypt, have communicated to Hamas that the “bridge” proposal must be implemented soon. He specifically mentioned that Hamas must immediately release dual US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander as part of the deal.
He also criticized Hamas for displaying contradictory stances—publicly claiming flexibility in negotiations while making unrealistic demands behind closed doors.
Next Steps in Negotiations
As diplomatic efforts intensify, Israel’s negotiating team is expected to engage with mediators to determine Hamas’s stance on the proposed framework. With pressure mounting, the coming days could be pivotal in resolving the hostage crisis and determining the future of the ceasefire agreement.