Hamas showing some ‘readiness’ to agree to long extension of ceasefire, Israeli source says

There is some “readiness” on the part of Hamas to agree to a long extension of the ceasefire without moving to the second phase of the deal with Israel, an Israeli source with knowledge of the details tells The Times of Israel.

Hamas would likely demand the release of senior terrorists being held by Israel, says the source as talks on the deal take place in Doha.

The source says that there is a “gap” between the US and Israeli delegations’ expectations from the talks in Qatar, and their decision-making abilities: While US President Donald Trump will send his special envoy Steve Witkoff, someone who can make decisions, the Israeli delegation — while relatively senior — is not empowered to make decisions.

A reported but unconfirmed proposal by Witkoff would see Hamas release 10 living hostages, including American-Israeli Edan Alexander, in exchange for a further 60 days of ceasefire.