New Ceasefire Proposal Brings Israel and Hamas Closer to Deal, Gaps Narrow Significantly

 Talks between Israel and Hamas over a potential ceasefire and hostage release have seen major progress in recent hours, according to diplomatic sources familiar with the negotiations. The discussions—mediated by Qatar and Egypt—have reportedly narrowed significant gaps between the sides, raising hopes for a breakthrough after nearly two years of war.

According to the updated proposal, Hamas has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire and is prepared to release 10 live hostages and return the bodies of 18 others. This offer significantly improves on previous positions, suggesting growing pressure on Hamas from regional and international actors.

Hamas has also revised its demands regarding prisoner releases, now requesting the release of 150 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences—down from 200 in earlier negotiations. In return, Israel is reportedly prepared to release 125 prisoners, bringing the sides closer to a potential agreement.

Additionally, Hamas has shown flexibility on the issue of a buffer zone along the Gaza border. While Israel is demanding a 1.2-kilometer-wide zone, Hamas is now willing to accept a width of 800 meters to 1 kilometer.

Framework Labeled ‘Comprehensive’ by Mediators

Although Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu continues to insist on a comprehensive agreement—not a partial one—the Egyptian-Qatari proposal is being described as a multi-phase deal that would ultimately lead to the release of all hostages and a cessation of hostilities.

A senior diplomatic source said the plan resembles the “Witkoff Plus” outline—a reference to White House envoy Steve Witkoff—with minor amendments. The source called the framework “a legitimate foundation for closing a deal,” adding: “Now the ball is in Israel’s court.”

Hamas and other Palestinian factions, including Islamic Jihad and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, have formally approved the plan.

Details of the Ceasefire Framework

According to sources cited by Lebanese channel Al-Mayadeen, the ceasefire proposal includes:

• A 1,000-meter Israeli withdrawal from northern and eastern Gaza (excluding Mashja'iya and Beit Lahiya)

• Release of 140 life-term prisoners and 60 prisoners sentenced to over 15 years in exchange for 10 live hostages

• Humanitarian aid delivery, including fuel, water, electricity, and rebuilding infrastructure

• Distribution of aid by the UN, Red Cross, and international organizations, excluding the U.S.-linked Global Humanitarian Fund (GHF)

• Opening of the Rafah crossing in both directions

• Return of 18 Israeli bodies, each in exchange for 10 Palestinian corpses

A senior Egyptian official confirmed to Reuters that the plan involves a 60-day halt to fighting, during which half of the hostages would be returned, serving as a stepping stone toward a permanent resolution.

Mixed Messages from Israeli Leadership

Despite the progress, Israeli officials have sent mixed signals. While Netanyahu acknowledged the mounting pressure on Hamas—calling it "atomic pressure" in a video following his visit to the Gaza Division—he did not endorse the new proposal outright.

A government source reiterated: “Israel's position has not changed—the release of all hostages and meeting all conditions for ending the war remain non-negotiable.”

Meanwhile, IDF operations continued on the ground, with tanks reportedly advancing toward the Sabra neighborhood in southern Gaza City, and airstrikes carried out in Khan Yunis.

Trump Weighs In, Supports Netanyahu

Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Netanyahu’s approach on his Truth Social platform, stating:

“We will see the return of the rest of the hostages when Hamas is confronted and destroyed. The sooner it happens, the greater the chances of success. Remember, I was the only one who secured the release of hundreds of hostages—for Israel and America.”

He added cryptically:

“Play for the L-N-C-H, or don't play at all.”

Looking Ahead

With the proposal gaining traction among Palestinian factions and supported by international mediators, attention now turns to Israel’s response. If accepted, the deal could bring about a major shift in the 22-month-long conflict, offering relief to hostage families and civilians on both sides.