Qatar is working to broker an “innovative” agreement on the central dispute between the Israeli regime and Hamas in ongoing negotiations for a prisoner exchange deal. The main point of contention remains Hamas’s demand for guarantees that a temporary ceasefire will transition into a permanent one.
A senior Israeli official and a U.S. source told Israeli news site *Walla* that Hamas has rejected the latest proposal drafted by U.S. envoy Steve Wittkoff. This means a deal can only move forward if Washington and Tel Aviv agree to revised terms for ending the war.
The official noted that progress has been made since Qatar re-entered negotiations, with Doha proposing a new framework to bridge gaps between the Israeli regime and Hamas.
A U.S. source stated, “The aim is to craft a creative formula that avoids explicit commitments on a permanent ceasefire but remains acceptable to Hamas.”
An Israeli official confirmed Qatar’s pivotal role, noting that Doha is drafting compromise language on the ceasefire issue. “Hamas trusts Qatar, and they are the only mediators who can influence the group’s position,” the official said.
Reports indicate that Qatar and international mediators are holding advanced talks on a deal that would include guarantees to end the war in Gaza.
Israel’s Channel 11 cited an unnamed negotiator who said, “Efforts now focus on Qatar and Hamas to develop a formula that reconciles both sides’ demands.” The source added that if the U.S. approves the compromise, Israel would likely follow suit.
Other sources cautioned that while progress could lead to a breakthrough, an immediate resolution is unlikely. “Movement depends on both Hamas and the Israeli regime accepting the proposed terms,” one explained.
Meanwhile, U.S. envoy Wittkoff reportedly told Israeli officials he sees “an opportunity for success” in securing a Gaza ceasefire and prisoner swap deal. Though details remain undisclosed, mediators view his proposal as a viable path forward.
An Israeli official told i24NEWS after Monday’s security cabinet meeting that “there is room for progress,” noting ongoing “discussions and adjustments.” Qatar is now awaiting Hamas’s response to Wittkoff’s revised proposal, which mediators believe could unlock a deal.