U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff issued a sharp rebuke on Saturday in response to Hamas’ latest position on a proposed ceasefire agreement. Witkoff denounced the group’s reply as “totally unacceptable,” warning that it “only takes us backward.”
An official closely involved in the talks disclosed that an in-depth review of Hamas’ counteroffer reveals it falls far short of the terms presented by Israel. The source noted that Hamas’ list of demands strays significantly from the existing framework.
Hamas has called for an extended truce that could last up to seven years, the complete withdrawal of IDF forces from territory seized since March, and the dismantling of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation’s recently implemented aid distribution system. They also want to revert to the older aid distribution method. “This isn’t a response — it’s a slammed door,” the official said.
Israel’s government issued a statement affirming that it had accepted the latest iteration of the Witkoff proposal to secure the release of hostages. However, the statement emphasized that Hamas remains unwilling to comply.
“As US Presidential Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff has said, Hamas’s response is totally unacceptable and is a step backward. Israel will continue its efforts to return our hostages and defeat Hamas.”
In reaction, Hamas criticized Witkoff’s remarks, arguing that they never outright rejected the plan. The group said his characterization was “unfair” and showed partiality toward Israel.
Previously, Hamas confirmed it had delivered its answer to the mediators concerning the revised Witkoff framework. They described the proposal as one designed to “achieve a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and ensure the flow of aid to our people and our families in the Strip.”
Reports from Egypt’s Al-Ghad channel revealed specific details of Hamas’ offer regarding hostage releases. They proposed releasing ten living hostages in three separate phases: four on the first day, two on day 30, and another four by day 60. The remains of eighteen deceased hostages would also be handed over in three phases: on days 10, 30, and 50.
Hamas further stipulated that these hostage transfers—both living and deceased—would be contingent on Israel agreeing to release a pre-determined number of Palestinian prisoners.
{Matzav.com}