As indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas edge toward a potential breakthrough, a revised U.S.-brokered proposal has emerged, offering new flexibility and firmer American assurances. This proposal outlines a detailed five-stage structure for hostage releases, marking what could be the most significant step toward concluding the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Sources familiar with the negotiations indicate that the current proposal would result in Hamas releasing half of the remaining living hostages—specifically, 10 individuals—as well as the bodies of 18 individuals who were killed while in captivity. These releases are set to occur over five distinct phases during a 60-day cease-fire, a significant shift from the earlier framework established in May, which aimed for all hostages to be freed by the seventh day of the truce.
The latest proposal includes additional terms aimed at preventing the political exploitation of these releases. Two officials have confirmed that Hamas is expected to refrain from publicized “liberation ceremonies,” a practice that previously sparked outrage in Israel and drew international condemnation during past exchanges.
Another key development in the negotiations is the inclusion of stronger assurances from the United States. A new American clarification has been shared with both sides, stating that if no final agreement to end the war is reached within the 60-day period, the cease-fire will continue as long as negotiations remain serious and ongoing. This provision is designed to function as a de facto guarantee that Israel will not resume hostilities unilaterally.
Hamas has reportedly responded favorably to the revised U.S. assurances. According to Asharq Al-Awsat, a Saudi newspaper, sources close to the group indicated that it was “satisfied” with the new framework and is expected to deliver its formal response before Friday evening.
The proposal also includes a significant role for President Donald Trump, who would announce the deal if accepted and act as its guarantor and sponsor. However, despite the apparent progress, many questions remain. U.S. officials have expressed commitment, yet the precise nature of the “guarantees” remains unclear, raising concerns about the willingness of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commit to a cease-fire that could ultimately end the war.
The plan also outlines a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza as part of a permanent cease-fire agreement, contingent upon successful negotiations. This provision is expected to be a significant sticking point for Israel, which has demanded that Hamas be fully disarmed, its leadership exiled, and that it play no role in any future governance structure in Gaza.
On the Israeli side, preparations are underway for possible proximity talks, likely to take place in Doha or Cairo. Should Hamas accept the proposed framework, Israel is expected to send a delegation to negotiate the details, including the selection of hostages to be released first. Despite earlier conflicting claims, Israeli officials have confirmed that Israel will dictate the list of hostages to be released, utilizing intelligence and medical teams for assistance. The initial focus will be on hostages in critical condition, whether physically or psychologically.
Negotiators are also preparing for challenging discussions regarding which Palestinian prisoners might be released in exchange. In previous agreements, Hamas has sought the release of high-profile figures, such as Marwan Barghouti, requests that Israel has consistently rejected. As of now, Hamas has not submitted any names in the current negotiations.
The humanitarian aspect of the proposal remains under scrutiny, as it promises expanded aid shipments to Gaza, although specifics are still vague. A previous version of the deal collapsed in March due to disputes over implementation, which had included plans for 400 to 600 trucks daily carrying essential supplies. This time, the distribution of aid would be managed by the controversial U.S.-funded Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF), which Hamas opposes because of its ties to Israel and military coordination.
