Thousands gathered Saturday night at the Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, where relatives of abducted Israelis delivered emotional speeches renewing their call for their loved ones’ return.
Hamas sources claim the terrorist organization has not outright rejected US envoy Steve Witkoff's proposal. Hamas insists the deal must include an immediate transition to the second phase of the hostage deal, which entails ending the war. A Hamas delegation is set to arrive in Cairo to discuss the proposal for hostage releases.
"The offer that Hamas is publishing is very far from our demand for at least eight living hostages," an official said.
The US special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has proposed an interim deal aimed at securing the release of 5 to 6 living hostages, along with the return of several dead hostages, in exchange for a 45 to 50 day ceasefire. During this period, negotiations for the next phase of the hostage deal would continue.
According to Arab reports, Egyptian and Qatari sources are working to establish a formula for a hostage deal acceptable to all parties. Sources indicate that this would include a two-month ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, and an extension of the first phase of the deal.
US president shares on his Truth Social platform an interview with general claiming Hamas' failure to meet ultimatum on hostages could lead to American military intervention.
Secretary of state notes decision to engage directly with Hamas was "an opportunity to talk directly to someone who has control over" hostages. White House's chief negotiator for the Qatar-mediated talks will continue to be Steve Witkoff.
The terrorist organization has expressed willingness to release 21-year-old Edan Alexander, a lone IDF soldier from New Jersey.
The Israeli delegation set to negotiate in the second phase of the hostage deal is expected to depart for Qatar tommorow. An Israeli official noted that despite the challenges of Qatari mediation, the wealthy Gulf state continues to have the most significant leverage over Hamas.
Reuters reported that Adam Boehler, President Donald Trump's Envoy for Hostages, met overnight with representatives of Hamas as well as officials from Egypt and Qatar. The discussions focused on the governance of Gaza following the war. An Israeli official responded, saying, "Israel is not aware of progress toward Phase 2."