Israel rejects Hamas hostage deal proposal
Hamas demanded a public handshake between its leader Khalil al-Hayya and US envoy Steve Witkoff, and the release of only 10 hostages instead of all remaining hostages. An Israeli official said the proposal "does not indicate a genuine desire to move forward with a deal."
Ariel Kahana
Israel Hayom
May 26, 2025
Israel has rejected a hostage deal proposal put forward overnight Monday-Tuesday by mediators. A senior Israeli official familiar with the matter told Israel Hayom that "no responsible government in Israel would agree to adopt such a proposal. It does not reflect a genuine willingness on Hamas' part to move forward with a deal based on the Witkoff framework."
According to the proposal delivered to Israel, Hamas demanded, among other things, a public handshake between its senior official Khalil al-Hayya and US envoy Steve Witkoff, symbolically signifying US guarantees not to resume fighting after the proposed ceasefire period.
As for the substance of the deal, according to the mediators, Hamas would be willing to release 10 live hostages over a 60-day ceasefire. Five would be freed on the first day, and the remaining five two months later. This contradicts the Witkoff plan, under which all hostages would be released in two phases, one at the start of the truce and the other at its end. In addition, Hamas is demanding a broad withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces from areas it has taken in the Gaza Strip, along with the entry of massive amounts of supplies.
Hostage families demand comprehensive deal
In response to the reports, the Hostage Families Forum issued a strongly worded statement: "Once again, the same dangerous concept is being promoted—that of continuing the war at all costs, needlessly. Partial deals are an Israeli loss that can and must be avoided."
The forum called for "a comprehensive agreement that will return all 58 hostages and end the war. The Israeli government could reach such an agreement tomorrow morning if it chooses to. This is the will of the overwhelming majority of the people. It is the only path to an Israeli victory and to national recovery and rebuilding."
The rejection follows reports of intense efforts to find a solution to the hostage crisis. Egyptian media reported that Israel and Hamas are examining a document presented by Palestinian-American mediator Dr. Bashara Bahbah, in coordination with US envoy Steve Witkoff. According to those reports, the document includes negotiations over ending the war during the ceasefire period and Hamas' commitment not to carry out terrorist attacks or smuggle and develop weapons.
Earlier, Sky News Arabia reported that US President Donald Trump is expected to announce a ceasefire in Gaza within days as part of a hostage release deal. According to those reports, an Israeli delegation is expected to arrive in Cairo today to discuss renewing the negotiations, although Israel has not yet officially confirmed the move.
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