Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Thursday that Israel has accepted the framework for a ceasefire and hostage release deal in Gaza proposed by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, though the agreement’s future now hinges on Hamas' response.
Speaking with families of deceased hostages whose bodies are held by Hamas, Netanyahu confirmed the government’s support for the proposal, which includes the phased release of hostages and a 60-day ceasefire.
Senior Israeli officials warned, however, that Hamas may reject the plan because it does not include a binding commitment to end the war. If Hamas accepts the terms, the Cabinet is expected to approve the deal, despite opposition from far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, who officials say are unlikely to topple the government over it.
Under the U.S.-brokered framework, 10 living hostages and the remains of half the deceased would be released in two phases, one week apart. The fate of the remaining hostages would depend on the outcome of the ceasefire negotiations. If no agreement is reached within the 60-day period, Israel would have the option to resume military operations.
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The proposed deal has sparked concern among hostage families over who would be included in the first group released. Israeli officials admit that the selection process is emotionally fraught. “It’s a cruel decision that could tear families apart,” one official said. Although Israel has requested priority for humanitarian cases, officials acknowledged that after more than 600 days in captivity, “everyone is already considered humanitarian.”
If implemented, the ceasefire would see humanitarian aid to Gaza restored through the United Nations and international organizations. This would mark a reversal of Israel’s efforts to bypass Hamas in delivering aid directly to Gaza residents. Critics warn that a reprise of the old distribution method could strengthen Hamas’ control over the enclave.