2025-05-26T15:19:00Z

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Jerusalem, CNN — In a significant development regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, US special envoy Steve Witkoff has revealed to CNN that a ceasefire-hostage deal is currently being negotiated, presenting a viable pathway toward ending the war. Witkoff has openly urged Hamas to accept this proposal, which he believes could help alleviate the devastating humanitarian crisis.

The proposed deal involves the release of half of the living hostages currently held by Hamas, as well as half of those who have tragically lost their lives in the conflict. In exchange, Israel would agree to a temporary ceasefire, which would serve as a precursor to negotiations aimed at reaching a comprehensive agreement to permanently end hostilities.

While Witkoff did not disclose the proposed duration of this temporary ceasefire, he emphasized that it is a pivotal aspect of the ongoing negotiations. “Israel will agree to a temporary ceasefire/hostage deal that would see half of the living and half of the deceased return and lead to substantive negotiations to find a path to a permanent ceasefire, which I have agreed to preside over,” Witkoff stated during his interview on Monday. He further added, “That deal is on the table. Hamas should take it.”

Despite the seriousness of the proposal and Witkoff’s calls for action, he indicated that Hamas has yet to formally accept the deal. This lack of acceptance raises concerns, as time is of the essence in alleviating the suffering of those impacted by the ongoing violence.

Witkoff’s comments mark a notable moment, as it is the first time he has expressed his willingness to oversee negotiations aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict during the period of a temporary ceasefire. This move is seen as an attempt to provide Hamas with reassurance that Israel will genuinely engage in negotiations, something that has been a significant stumbling block in previous talks. Hamas has consistently sought guarantees that Israel would seriously consider negotiations for a permanent ceasefire if they agree to another temporary truce, a request that was notably ignored during the last temporary ceasefire.

Adding another layer to the situation, Reuters reported earlier on Monday that Hamas had agreed to a different proposal, which would involve the release of 10 hostages in two groups in exchange for a 70-day truce. However, Witkoff dismissed this as “completely unacceptable,” indicating a lack of consensus between the involved parties.

In a further twist, a Palestinian official who is closely connected to the negotiations indicated to CNN that Hamas has expressed agreement with Witkoff’s proposal. However, this official did not provide any additional details regarding the specifics of the deal, leaving many questions unanswered.

As the situation continues to evolve, CNN has reached out to the Israeli government for their input on the negotiations and the current state of affairs.