Israel Accepts Witkoff-Proposed Gaza Truce While Hamas Hedges

Latest Developments

• White House Hopes: Israel has accepted a new Gaza ceasefire and hostage release plan proposed by President Donald Trump and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, the White House said on May 29. “I can also confirm that those discussions are continuing, and we hope that a ceasefire in Gaza will take place so we can return all of the hostages home,” said White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt, adding that Hamas has yet to respond. The Iran-backed Palestinian terrorist group said it is studying the proposal.
• Half at Outset: According to officials briefed on the negotiations, Hamas would return 10 living hostages and the bodies of 18 slain hostages in the first week of the proposed truce, which would last 60 days. In return, Israel would free hundreds of jailed Palestinian terrorists, increase aid deliveries to Gaza through UN agencies, and pull back some forces within the territory. A recovery of the remaining 10 live hostages and 20 bodies, as well as other end-of-war conditions, would be negotiated during the truce period.
• Hamas Wants Guarantees: Hamas is reportedly trying to amend the proposal to ensure a clear understanding that, if the war ends or a “permanent ceasefire” is reached, Israel will not resume the offensive. The terrorist organization is reportedly demanding that the IDF withdraw to specified locations and is seeking guarantees that humanitarian aid will be delivered “per international humanitarian standards” — an apparent effort to undermine the newly established Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, which has distributed over 1.8 million meals to civilians in Gaza as of May 29.

FDD Expert Response

“Hamas is finally coming around to the deal Steve Witkoff proposed in early March. Many lives were lost in the meantime. The White House must hold the line — no more concessions. Let Hamas say yes to this deal.” — Mark Dubowitz, CEO

“This wasn’t an easy decision for Israel. It’s a brutal dilemma — who gets to come home, and who remains in Hamas’s tunnels. It also means slowing momentum: pausing military gains and testing if the United Nations can deliver aid without Hamas interference. But it’s a choice Israel is willing to make for its people.” — Joe Truzman, Senior Research Analyst and Editor at FDD’s Long War Journal

FDD Background and Analysis

“‘Agents of the Occupation’: Hamas Threatens Civilians Who Accept Aid From Gaza Humanitarian Foundation,” FDD Flash Brief

“‘Deadline for the Second Phase’: Citing Hostage Conditions, Witkoff Wants Timeframe,” FDD Flash Brief

“Can Hamas ever be defeated?” by Seth J. Frantzman