Israel is making a strong push to finalize a broad ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza before Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits Washington next week, according to multiple Israeli media reports.
For the first time, Israeli leaders are seriously considering a comprehensive ceasefire agreement that could end the war and secure the release of all 50 remaining hostages held by Hamas. Talks are progressing, and if Hamas agrees in principle — possibly within the next 24 hours — negotiations will likely shift to Doha or Cairo to work out the details. These would include:
- Releasing Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli hostages
- The Israeli military’s withdrawal from Gaza
- Allowing humanitarian aid into the region
These discussions are expected to take at least a week.
A Serious Shift in Strategy?
Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, and Qatari officials are leading the broader conversations. The key question: how far is Israel willing to go to end the war, and will Hamas accept the terms?
Despite some optimism, the situation remains uncertain. Israeli officials say without real flexibility from Hamas, a deal may still fall through.
Netanyahu: ‘No More Hamas’
Speaking in Ashkelon on Wednesday, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel’s dual goals of defeating Hamas and freeing hostages remain on track.
“There will be no Hamas. There will be no Hamastan. We’re not going back to that,” he said. “We will release all our hostages.”
He pushed back against claims that ending the war and freeing hostages are conflicting goals, calling such ideas “nonsense.”
U.S. Pressure on Qatar
During his upcoming meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, Netanyahu is expected to ask the U.S. to pressure Qatar into threatening Hamas leaders with expulsion if they stall the deal. Israel believes that key Hamas figures living comfortably abroad — especially in Qatar and Turkey — feel little urgency to act.
Israeli security officials argue that sanctions or travel restrictions on these leaders could make a big difference in moving talks forward.
Hamas Open to Ceasefire, But…
On Wednesday, Hamas said it was open to a ceasefire but rejected a U.S.-backed proposal announced by Trump a day earlier. That plan involved a 60-day ceasefire, during which further negotiations would work toward ending the war permanently.
The main roadblock? Hamas wants a permanent ceasefire, while Israel insists on keeping the right to resume fighting if necessary.
Deal Could Be Announced Next Week
Reports suggest Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz support the proposed framework behind closed doors, though no official confirmation has been given.
If all goes well, a deal could be announced during Netanyahu’s U.S. trip next week. Mediators, including the U.S., would also guarantee that peace talks continue beyond the initial 60-day truce.
Holding the Line in Gaza
Meanwhile, Israel wants to keep control of the Morag Corridor, a strategic route across southern Gaza. Netanyahu reportedly told officials this week that he supports maintaining a “siege” on Gaza, even if a ceasefire is reached.
“We need a siege. Don’t tell me it won’t work — I’m putting my entire resume on the line,” he was quoted as saying.
The Hostage Situation
As of now, 50 hostages remain in Gaza:
- 49 were kidnapped during the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas
- At least 28 are confirmed dead
- 20 are believed to be alive
- There are serious concerns about the condition of two others
- Hamas also holds the body of an IDF soldier killed in 2014
Israel hopes this new push will finally bring them home — and bring the war closer to an end.
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