Despite Hamas accepting an Arab-mediated hostage proposal, Israel and the U.S. remain unwilling to consider phased agreements.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu argues only a complete Hamas defeat will secure Israel, while families of captives fear IDF operations in Gaza City could put their loved ones at risk.
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff echoed Israel’s position, saying the administration opposes partial deals and wants all hostages freed simultaneously. He accused Hamas of delaying negotiations by adding new conditions last month.
Hamas insists it won’t release captives unless Israel ends the war and withdraws — demands Netanyahu rejects. Meanwhile, the IDF prepares for a months-long Gaza City offensive.
Witkoff noted Israel recently approved nearly $500 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza, but insisted Hamas “must have no role in governance going forward.” He suggested Hamas could yield control to Palestinian technocrats but reiterated Israel’s demand for disarmament.
With no breakthrough in sight, Witkoff said Trump hopes for a resolution by year’s end, but acknowledged the conflict remains volatile and dangerous.
