US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff recently informed CNN that there is currently a ceasefire-hostage proposal aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza, urging Hamas to consider it. The proposal entails the release of half of the living hostages and half of the deceased in exchange for a temporary ceasefire, setting the stage for future negotiations toward a more permanent solution. Although Witkoff chose not to disclose the duration of this proposed ceasefire—an essential point in discussions—he emphasised its importance.
Witkoff stated that this arrangement is on the table, expressing frustration over Hamas’s lack of acceptance. Notably, a competing report suggested that Hamas was willing to release ten hostages in exchange for a 70-day ceasefire, but Witkoff dismissed this as unacceptable and clarified that it did not align with his proposal. In contrast, a Palestinian official mentioned that Hamas might have agreed to Witkoff’s terms without providing further specifics.
While there have been contacts, Witkoff has not met directly with Hamas. Instead, communications seem to be facilitated by Palestinian-American businessman Bishara Bahbah.
The negotiations for a ceasefire come amid escalating military tensions, with the Israeli government issuing evacuation orders in southern Gaza in anticipation of a substantial military operation. This military escalation is reportedly directed at eradicating Hamas, which has provoked widespread international concern about the humanitarian situation for Palestinian civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that the release of hostages remains a priority and expressed hope for positive developments in negotiations.
However, Israeli officials later stated that progress in negotiations remains slim, with Hamas still staunchly opposed to the current proposals. In light of continuous military actions, there is increasing international pressure on Israel regarding its handling of the conflict and the treatment of Gaza’s civilian population. European leaders, including those from Germany and the UK, have begun to reconsider their diplomatic and trade relations with Israel in response to the situation on the ground.
As the conflict continues, Witkoff’s role as a negotiator represents a potential shift towards more active involvement from the US in seeking a resolution while Israeli military operations seem to intensify, raising significant humanitarian concerns for the residents of Gaza.