Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly suggested a new two-step approach to ending the war in Gaza, with the condition that Hamas surrenders control of the Palestinian enclave and its senior leaders go into exile. This proposal, revealed during his discussions with U.S. officials, diverges from the three-stage agreement previously negotiated between Israel and Hamas.

Netanyahu’s Alternative Plan

According to Axios, Netanyahu’s plan involves extending the first stage of the existing deal—where hostages are released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners—without progressing to the second and third stages, which include Israeli withdrawal and Gaza’s reconstruction. Under this new approach, Israel would continue negotiating hostage releases but would insist on Hamas relinquishing political control and sending its leadership into exile.

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Sources claim that while Hamas has shown willingness to transfer civilian governance to the Palestinian Authority or an independent body, it refuses to dismantle its military presence in Gaza. Netanyahu, however, remains opposed to any role for the Palestinian Authority in post-war governance, further complicating the situation.

Low Chances of Acceptance and Political Pressure

Israeli officials reportedly believe the likelihood of Hamas agreeing to this plan is minimal, raising concerns that the current hostage-release negotiations may collapse, leading to renewed fighting. Netanyahu’s coalition government also faces internal pressure, with far-right allies threatening to withdraw support if the ceasefire is fully implemented. To maintain his political standing, Netanyahu may choose to continue military operations, even if it risks the lives of the remaining hostages.