Amid sensitive negotiations in Doha over a potential hostage deal, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in an interview with CBS that Hamas remains the primary obstacle to ending the war in Gaza: “This war could end immediately if Hamas surrenders, disarms, and releases all hostages—including the deceased. They chose to reject that offer.”
Hamas Proposal: Half the Hostages for Temporary Ceasefire
According to a report from Sky News Arabia, a Palestinian source involved in the indirect negotiations revealed that Hamas has proposed releasing half of the living hostages, along with the bodies of fallen captives, in return for a two-month ceasefire, immediate humanitarian aid shipments to Gaza, and U.S. guarantees of future negotiations to end the conflict.
Hamas Requests U.S. Protection and Safe Exit for Leaders
The same source stated that Hamas is demanding assurances that the ceasefire would lead to formal peace talks, uninterrupted humanitarian access, a guarantee of safe passage for top Hamas leaders and their families, and a commitment by the U.S. that Israel would not pursue them in the future. In what could be seen as a shift, Hamas has also expressed a willingness to discuss disarmament, but only after relinquishing governance in Gaza and beginning long-term negotiations.
Rubio: “Hamas Has Rejected the Path to Peace for Months”
Secretary Rubio reiterated that Israel has been clear from the outset: “The conflict could have ended long ago if Hamas had accepted disarmament and returned the hostages. They are the ones who continue to say no.”
No Breakthrough on the “Witkoff Framework”
Israeli officials involved in the negotiations confirmed Saturday that Hamas has rejected the Witkoff framework—a U.S.-backed proposal developed with international mediators.
The plan included the immediate release of 10 living hostages on day one, a phased negotiation for remaining captives, and a partial ceasefire to accompany talks. But Israeli sources said Hamas “refuses to accept the framework” and is only willing to participate in general discussions—with no clear commitments.
“There is openness to dialogue,” said one source, “but no breakthrough or binding agreement at this time.”
Israeli Airstrikes Continue Amid Talks
Meanwhile, fighting in Gaza continues. Overnight, the Israeli Air Force reportedly struck a building in Jabalia, killing dozens, according to Palestinian sources. Additional casualties were reported in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. Israeli analysts suggest it is the military pressure that pushed Hamas back to the table. Defense Minister Israel Katz stated: “With the launch of the operation, the Hamas delegation returned to the negotiating table—without demanding a humanitarian ceasefire in advance.”
