In the latest ceasefire and hostages counterproposal, Hamas has requested an initial 12-week pause in fighting, rather than the previously agreed-upon six weeks, causing a significant hurdle in the negotiations with Israel. Israeli officials are strongly against the extended ceasefire, fearing it would effectively end the war. They are particularly concerned about maintaining the flexibility to dismantle the remaining Hamas battalions in Rafah.
During earlier discussions, Hamas had agreed to engage in negotiations during the first six weeks of the ceasefire, with terms needing to be reached before the second phase could commence. The new demand for a longer ceasefire period represents a clear reversal in their stance.
Israeli officials acknowledge that a prolonged ceasefire would make it challenging to resume the conflict and re-enter Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is hesitant to commit to a 12-week pause upfront, as some of his right-wing partners have threatened to withdraw support if the war ends without a significant ground offensive in Rafah and the dismantlement of Hamas.
Israel is also hesitant to agree to a lengthy ceasefire before the release of hostages, emphasizing the importance of the agreement's wording in transitioning from the first to the second phase of the truce.
A document obtained confirms Hamas' request for continuity of measures from the first stage to the second until a sustainable calm is achieved. The change in Hamas' position is speculated to be due to a disconnect between negotiators and the group's ultimate decision-maker, Yahya Sinwar, who is believed to be underground in Gaza.
Currently, there is a pause in ceasefire talks as Israel conducts a military operation in Rafah. Despite CIA Director Bill Burns' departure from the region after active engagement in negotiations, the White House remains hopeful for progress in the discussions.
