The Prime Minister, along with a small number of ministers and senior security officials, will convene tonight for an urgent discussion regarding the imposition of additional sanctions on Gaza. This comes in light of Hamas’s refusal of U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s proposal for the release of hostages in exchange for a 40-day cease-fire.
A Last Chance for Americans to Pressure Hamas and Promote a “Small Deal”
Among the measures on the table are the cessation of water supply to the Gaza Strip and stopping the transfer of wounded Gazans through the Rafah crossing.
A security source stated that Israel has U.S. backing to carry out these actions, but there remains a possibility that the Americans will succeed in pressuring Hamas through mediation to promote a “small deal” for the release of hostages.
Hamas Stalls – Will Israel Renew Fire?
Currently, Israel agrees to the release of five living hostages in exchange for a 40-day cease-fire but aims to increase the number to 11 living hostages.
Meanwhile, the IDF is expected to present a proposal to increase pressure on Hamas through renewed airstrikes, artillery fire, and later the possibility of limited ground maneuvers.
The main concern is that a ground maneuver could endanger the hostages, especially given that intelligence regarding their exact locations is very partial.
Three Strikes Today in Gaza
Alongside the discussions, the IDF struck three times in the Strip, around the Netzarim Axis, in Beit Lahiya, and in the center of the Strip. According to Palestinian reports, nine terrorists were killed in the strikes.
Israel is monitoring Hamas’s preparations in case of a ground maneuver, with recent attempts identified to plant explosives near IDF troops.
Hamas’s Maneuver: Attempting to Buy Time
Hamas continues to exploit international mediation to project to the world that it treats cease-fire proposals “seriously,” while simultaneously setting conditions that distance the chances for an agreement.
The terrorist organization offered to release hostage Idan Alexander and four deceased individuals with American citizenship only while demanding negotiations for a second phase of the deal, which would include discussions on ending the war and the IDF’s withdrawal from Gaza. Israel views this as a clear attempt to buy time and create internal political pressure.
A senior figure in the terrorist organizations stated that the gaps between Hamas’s proposals and Israel’s demands remain significant, and Hamas continues to use its counter-offers as a tool to stabilize its position with the U.S. and the Palestinian public.
