The Israeli government has agreed to implement a proposal from US envoy Steve Witkoff for a temporary ceasefire during Pesach and Ramadan, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The decision followed a special defense meeting chaired by Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu, attended by Defense Minister Yisroel Katz, senior defense officials, and the Israeli negotiating team.
Under the terms of the agreement, half of the hostages, both alive and deceased, will be returned to Israel on the first day of the ceasefire. If a permanent ceasefire agreement is reached at the end of the designated period, the remaining hostages, both living and dead, will be brought back to Israel.
Witkoff proposed this temporary pause in fighting due to the understanding that, at this time, a resolution between Israel and Hamas regarding the end of the conflict is unachievable. More time is needed for ongoing negotiations toward a lasting ceasefire.
The Prime Minister’s Office pointed out that although Hamas had violated the terms of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, Israel maintains it has adhered to the deal. The arrangement stipulates that if, after 42 days of ceasefire, talks on next steps do not yield progress, Israel can resume fighting.
“This section is anchored in a letter from the previous US government and enjoys the support of the Trump administration as well,” the statement read.
Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Office stressed that Israel agreed to Witkoff’s plan with the primary objective of securing the release of hostages held by Hamas. However, Hamas has rejected the proposal at this stage. Should Hamas change its position, Israel will promptly agree to negotiations to finalize the details of the proposal.
{Matzav.com}