Tonight, Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu’s office issued a statement addressing Hamas’s latest response to the Qatar-backed ceasefire framework, stating unequivocally that “the changes that Hamas is seeking to make in the Qatari proposal were conveyed to us last night and are unacceptable to Israel.”
Despite rejecting Hamas’s proposed amendments, the statement confirmed that Netanyahu, following a strategic assessment, instructed the negotiating team to proceed with proximity talks. “In light of an assessment of the situation, Prime Minister Binyomin Netanyahu has directed that the invitation to proximity talks be accepted and that the contacts for the return of our hostages – on the basis of the Qatari proposal that Israel has agreed to – be continued,” the statement said.
Israel’s delegation is scheduled to depart on Sunday for discussions in Qatar, as the government moves forward in efforts to secure a deal based on the original terms it approved.
This update follows Hamas’s announcement on Friday night that it had responded favorably to the latest truce and hostage deal proposal, though it was also seeking what it characterized as “minor amendments.”
Among the changes demanded by Hamas are the shutdown of the Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF), a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops to previously agreed-upon positions, and assurances that hostilities will not resume once the 60-day ceasefire concludes.
A diplomatic source involved in the talks emphasized the importance of firm commitments: “Egypt, Qatar, and the US must provide guarantees for the continuation of the process.” However, another official pointed out that unresolved issues remain, including the management of aid deliveries, control of the Rafah crossing, and the detailed schedule for Israeli troop movements.
An Israeli official commented on one of Hamas’s core demands, saying, “This GHF is exactly what led Hamas to agree to a deal,” and added, “so it’s not surprising that they demand its removal—but there will be no agreement to that.”
Speaking on Friday night, US President Donald Trump voiced cautious optimism about the negotiations, stating that there “could be a Gaza deal” in the coming week, though he also acknowledged the situation remains fluid and subject to change.
{Matzav.com Israel}
