The United States has introduced a “bridge” proposal to extend the Israel-Hamas ceasefire beyond Ramadan and Passover, aiming to provide additional time to negotiate a permanent truce. The proposal was presented in Qatar on Wednesday by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and National Security Council official Eric Trager, according to a White House statement.
The plan includes:
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- Extending the phase-one ceasefire to allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza.
- A continued hostage-prisoner exchange based on previously agreed-upon terms.
- A US commitment to working towards a long-term solution to the conflict.
Hamas Pressured to Respond
Witkoff emphasized that Hamas must act quickly. The US, along with Qatari and Egyptian mediators, has conveyed to Hamas that the “bridge” plan requires immediate implementation.
“Hamas was told in no uncertain terms that this ‘bridge’ must be acted on soon, and that US-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander must be released immediately,” Witkoff stated.
US Criticizes Hamas’ Stance
Witkoff also accused Hamas of displaying inconsistency in negotiations, claiming that while the group publicly expresses flexibility, it privately makes impractical demands.
“Hamas is making a very bad bet by believing that time is on its side. It is not. The group knows the deadline, and the US will respond accordingly if it is missed,” he warned.
Ongoing Diplomatic Efforts
The US, Egypt, and Qatar continue to push for a long-term ceasefire, but Hamas’ response remains uncertain. The situation is developing, with further updates expected as negotiations progress.
