In light of Hamas’s response to the ceasefire proposal presented by the United States, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an in-depth discussion last night (Saturday) at 20:30 regarding the hostages, attended by ministers, the negotiation team, and heads of the security establishment.
At the conclusion of the discussion, the Prime Minister instructed the negotiation team to prepare for continued talks based on the mediators’ response to Witkoff’s proposal for the immediate release of 11 living hostages and half of the deceased.
“A Sick Organization” and “Manipulation and Psychological Warfare”
Tensions in the negotiations escalated after Hamas rejected the American proposal, which included the release of five living hostages and ten deceased hostages in exchange for the release of militants according to a pre-determined key, the introduction of humanitarian aid, and a halt to military operations for a period of 42 to 50 days.
In response, U.S. officials expressed outrage at Hamas, calling it a “sick organization,” while sources in Israel argued that Hamas’s counteroffer was nothing more than “manipulation and psychological warfare.”
Ceasefire Continues, IDF Continues Targeted Strikes
Despite the deadlock in negotiations, it seems that the ceasefire is effectively continuing on the ground, as the IDF continues to carry out targeted strikes against terrorists threatening its forces. Reports from Gaza indicate that since morning, nine people have been killed in Israeli strikes.
Israel continues to closely monitor developments, and in the meantime, the assessment is that the coming hours will be critical in determining how Israel will act towards Hamas, whether it will escalate military pressure or continue to try to advance through diplomatic channels.
