Pressure Builds as Israel Delivers Response to Hamas Proposal

Efforts to reach a new hostage deal are gaining renewed attention. On Saturday, Hamas informed mediators it would agree to the release of up to five hostages, living or deceased, in exchange for a temporary ceasefire lasting until after Passover.

Israel Proposes Phased Release Plan

In contrast, Israel is advancing the Witkoff Framework, which calls for the gradual release of 10 out of the remaining 24 hostages still held in Gaza.

Hamas is demanding a prior commitment to discussions on a permanent ceasefire, a condition Israel firmly rejects as long as the group continues to hold hostages and retains its military power in Gaza. The Prime Minister’s Office stated Saturday evening that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held a series of consultations following Hamas’s latest message. “In recent hours, Israel submitted its counteroffer to the mediators, in full coordination with the United States,” the statement said.

 

Push for a “Holiday Deal” Before Passover

According to a report by Israeli news channel N12, current efforts are focused on securing a “holiday deal” to release hostages ahead of Passover, which begins soon. However, sources suggest that reaching an agreement before the Muslim holiday, Eid al-Fitr, which falls in the next two days, is unlikely.

Security Cabinet to Convene Tonight

The Security Cabinet is expected to convene this evening to review the latest proposals from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. One such proposal reportedly involves the release of hostage Idan Alexander, in exchange for a public statement from Donald Trump expressing support for renewed negotiations.

President Isaac Herzog and his wife meet Yael, mother of hostage Idan Alexander | Archive Photo: Spokesperson’s Office of the President

Military Pressure Could Escalate

While Israeli officials are open to a breakthrough, many believe the current diplomatic pressure isn’t enough to force Hamas into a deal. As a result, a renewed escalation of IDF operations in Gaza could be on the horizon. Despite movement in recent days, the gaps between the two sides remain wide.