Israel and Hamas are both expressing a willingness to extend their ceasefire in Gaza, but they have very different ideas on how to proceed. Israel is backing the "Witkoff Plan," which suggests that half of the remaining 59 hostages be released immediately, with the rest to follow in six weeks, provided an agreement to end the conflict is reached by then. On the other hand, Hamas wants to move forward with the second phase of their original agreement, which includes a full withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from Gaza, a complete halt to fighting, and an end to Hamas’s rule in the region.
Both sides are trying to gain favor with the United States. Israel hopes to do this by supporting the Witkoff Plan, while Hamas has taken steps to release at least one American national, Edan Alexander. Ongoing talks in Doha have been seen as a hopeful sign, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has now called back his negotiating team for more discussions this weekend.
The situation has become increasingly tense. Israel has halted humanitarian aid to Gaza and cut off electricity to a water treatment facility, actions that have drawn international criticism, though not from the U.S. After 15 months of conflict, it’s uncertain what renewed fighting would accomplish for Israel, especially as it could endanger the lives of hostages still held by Hamas. Many believe that reaching an agreement with Hamas is the best chance to secure their release.
However, if Israel gives in to Hamas’s demands to end the war, it could put Netanyahu’s government at risk. Far-right parties in his coalition have warned they might resign, which could jeopardize his leadership. The key to the next steps may depend on how U.S. President Donald Trump views the situation. He could see Hamas as being manipulative, or he might think Netanyahu is missing an opportunity to bring more hostages home and extend the ceasefire.
As these discussions continue, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution to this ongoing conflict.