US envoy Steve Witkoff confirms understandings with Hamas regarding prisoners and a ceasefire in Gaza
US envoy Steve Witkoff informed Israeli officials of his belief that understandings are emerging with Hamas regarding a potential ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement in the Gaza Strip.
Meanwhile, there is no details revealed of these understandings or the specific points that any agreement might address, as Witkoff sees the current situation as “an opportunity for a breakthrough”.
In this regard, an Israeli official told Israeli i24NEWS, commenting on the Israeli security cabinet meeting held Monday evening, that there is an opportunity for progress, explaining that changes and discussions are underway.
The Israeli official added that Qatar is awaiting an updated response from Hamas to the plan presented by Witkoff, which international mediators see as a possible basis for achieving real progress.
In the same context, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in statements on Tuesday that there had been significant progress in efforts to secure the release of prisoners in Gaza, but he warned that talk of hope is still premature.
Hamas had previously submitted amendments to the Witkoff plan, including a 60-day ceasefire and the release of 10 prisoners, proposals criticized by both Israel and the United States.
As for Hamas, it’s seeking US guarantees for a permanent cessation of military operations.
A source familiar with the negotiations indicated that Washington is offering Hamas increasing guarantees, which will translate into gradual steps that could lead to an end to the war.
As the greatest optimism comes from the American side, not the Israeli side, Trump administration point pressure to reach an agreement as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, neither the US National Security Council nor the office of envoy Witkoff has issued an official comment on these developments, and Hamas has yet to comment on the reported potential progress in the talks.
The US initiative proposes a 60-day ceasefire, to which Israel has committed, while Hamas has made additional demands related to a permanent end to the war in exchange for the release of its remaining prisoners.
