Israel has agreed to a temporary ceasefire proposal put forward by US envoy Steve Witkoff, aligning with the Ramadan and Passover periods, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced early Sunday.
Under the plan, half of the hostages held in Gaza—both living and deceased—would be released on the first day, with the remaining hostages freed once a permanent ceasefire is established. Israel has stated it is ready to begin negotiations on the plan immediately if Hamas agrees.
However, Hamas has rejected Israel’s suggested extension of the first phase of the ceasefire, insisting on transitioning to the second phase as per the original agreement. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, led to the release of 33 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
Negotiations continue in Cairo, but no final agreement has been reached.