Washington D.C., May 29, 2025: The United States is preparing to submit a new ceasefire proposal to Israel and Hamas aimed at halting hostilities in the Gaza Strip and securing the release of hostages. This announcement follows Hamas’ statement claiming consensus on a broad framework for the agreement.
Steve Witkoff, the US Special Envoy to the Middle East, confirmed that the proposal, which has been developed through recent direct negotiations with both parties, will be presented imminently. "We're on the precipice of sending out a new term sheet that hopefully will be delivered later today. The president is going to review it," said Witkoff. "I have very good feelings about securing a temporary ceasefire and advancing towards a long-term peaceful resolution of the conflict."
The initiative comes amid ongoing tensions and conflicting narratives. While Hamas has described the progress as a general framework to end hostilities, Israel has expressed skepticism and dismissed claims of an agreement. The key sticking point remains what occurs after any temporary ceasefire ends: Hamas demands US guarantees for continuation of negotiations, whereas Israel insists hostilities will resume if no final accord is reached.
The proposal is informed by Witkoff’s discussions with Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer in Washington and Palestinian-American activist Bishara Bahbah's meetings with senior Hamas officials in Qatar. Bahbah, known for engaging with Hamas under previous US administrations, has played a central role in facilitating dialogue.
According to Hamas, the framework includes provisions for a permanent ceasefire, full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and unrestricted humanitarian aid deliveries. Additionally, Hamas has agreed to release 10 living hostages and the remains of others in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The plan also contemplates establishing a professional committee to oversee Gaza's governance upon ceasefire implementation.
Despite cautious optimism expressed by involved parties, some sources doubt Hamas' public use of the "Witkoff framework" as an official US-endorsed concept, indicating no formal agreement with the US has been reached. Officials emphasize that significant but bridgeable gaps remain. The prospect of an agreement is regarded with guarded hope given the complex and protracted nature of the conflict.
This diplomatic effort marks a critical development in the Middle East conflict, aiming to alleviate humanitarian suffering and advance hostages' release amidst ongoing violence since March 2025. The US involvement underscores its continued commitment to mediating peace between Israel and Hamas.
Image credit: Palestinian residents walk in the rubble of destroyed homes in Gaza City, March 7, 2025 – AP
