Israel has given its backing to a US-led initiative aimed at extending the ceasefire in Gaza, offering a temporary truce in exchange for the release of hostages.
The proposed extension would last through Ramadan and Passover, providing a potential window for further negotiations.
However, Hamas has rejected the plan, insisting on immediately transitioning to the next phase of the ceasefire process, one that seeks to end the war entirely and ensure the return of all captives.
The previous ceasefire phase expired on Saturday, March 1, after being finalized on January 19.
Details of Israel’s Proposal
The framework, introduced by US envoy Steve Witkoff, suggests a ceasefire lasting until April 20. Under this plan:
On the first day, half of the remaining hostages, including both those alive and deceased, would be released.
If an agreement is reached for a permanent ceasefire by the end of this period, the remaining hostages would also be freed.
A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed Israel’s acceptance of the plan,”Israel adopts the framework of US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff for a temporary ceasefire during the Ramadan and Passover period. On the first day of the framework, half of the living and deceased hostages will be released and upon its conclusion – if agreement is reached on a permanent ceasefire, the remaining living and deceased hostages will be released.”
While committing to the proposed hostage deal, Israel has emphasized that it retains the option to resume military operations if negotiations do not yield results.
The statement further clarified,”While Hamas has repeatedly violated the agreement, Israel has not been found in violation. According to the agreement, Israel could return to fighting after the 42nd day if it gains the impression that the negotiations have been ineffective.”
Hamas’ Response
Hamas has rejected the proposal, arguing that it contradicts the existing ceasefire framework.
The group insists that discussions should immediately shift to the second phase of the truce, which focuses on permanently ending hostilities rather than prolonging the temporary ceasefire.
A senior Hamas official, speaking anonymously, claimed that Israel’s offer was merely a stalling tactic to delay inevitable negotiations for a long-term truce.
The group remains firm in its stance, stating that the original ceasefire agreement should be honoured without amendments.
What Comes Next?
The situation has reached a deadlock. Israel has expressed willingness to negotiate a ceasefire extension if Hamas reconsiders its stance, while Hamas and its mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, insist that the original terms must be followed as agreed.
With Israeli negotiators back home and Hamas absent from recent discussions, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain.
The success of diplomatic efforts, particularly from the US and Arab mediators, may determine whether a resolution can be reached.
Meanwhile, the war continues to claim lives. Gaza health officials reported over 48,000 Palestinian deaths, while Israel estimates that 32 of the remaining 59 hostages have died.
As negotiations stalled, hostage families in Israel are increasingly calling on their government to secure a deal, urging continued efforts toward maintaining the ceasefire.
