Hamas's approval of US proposal puts Netanyahu in bind

The Hebrew newspaper Haaretz reported that Hamas's approval of a proposal from mediator Steve Witekoff has placed "Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a difficult position.

The report suggests that Netanyahu’s refusal to release American captives could lead to a diplomatic crisis with Washington, while agreeing to the release may be interpreted as favoritism toward US captives over "Israeli" ones.

On Friday, a senior Hamas leader confirmed that the group had received a new proposal aimed at resuming negotiations regarding Gaza, and expressed that they were handling it responsibly and positively.

Hamas announced its approval of the release of "Israeli" soldier Idan Alexander, who holds US citizenship, along with the return of the bodies of four others with dual citizenship.

The group also expressed its full readiness to engage in negotiations for a comprehensive agreement on the next phase, emphasizing the importance of "Israel" fulfilling its commitments.

Meanwhile, US Middle East envoy Steve Witekoff stated that Washington had proposed extending the ceasefire beyond Ramadan and Passover to allow sufficient time for negotiations.

He claimed that Hamas had unrealistic demands behind closed doors and suggested that the US would take actions depending on what happens after the deadline.

Witekoff reaffirmed that the primary goal is to secure a final agreement that ensures peace and stability in Gaza.