An Israeli negotiating team has reportedly extended their stay in Doha, Qatar, following a visit from US envoy Steve Witkoff to mediate between Israel and Hamas. The proposed deal involves a 60-day ceasefire extension in exchange for the release of up to 10 Israeli captives held in Gaza. Despite previous rejection from Hamas, recent direct meetings between US envoy Adam Boehler and top Hamas officials have increased the likelihood of a potential long-term ceasefire deal. There are rumors that Boehler may no longer be involved in the Israel-Gaza negotiations, but this has not been confirmed.
The current negotiations in Doha mirror a previous agreement between Israel and Hamas, which aimed to progress through three phases towards a permanent ceasefire. However, Israel’s actions have deviated from the agreed terms, leading to threats of renewed conflict and blockades of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu introduced a new proposal, allegedly influenced by Witkoff, which was initially rejected by Hamas. Critics believe Netanyahu is not genuinely interested in ending the war permanently due to fears of political repercussions.
Boehler’s negotiations, focused on five Israeli-American captives, have opened the possibility of broader discussions with Hamas, potentially leading to the release of all captives. Israel has reacted negatively to the news of these talks, with officials criticizing Boehler for engaging with Hamas without coordination. Despite initial support from the White House, reports suggest that Boehler may no longer represent the administration’s position, with Witkoff resuming leadership of negotiations.
The uncertainty surrounding Trump’s stance on the matter leaves room for speculation, as Republican senators express distrust towards Boehler. The talks with Hamas signal a shift in US involvement in Gaza, potentially influencing Israel’s actions and decisions. Israel’s dependence on US support, both militarily and diplomatically, underscores the significance of these negotiations. Selain itu, mengingat sikap Trump yang tiba-tiba meninggalkan aliansi tradisional AS, seperti dengan Kanada dan Eropa, banyak di Israel yang khawatir bahwa dukungan Trump untuk perang mereka di Gaza mungkin sama-sama tidak stabil.
Menanggapi kabar tentang pembicaraan langsung, harian Israel Haaretz berspekulasi bahwa adanya negosiasi langsung AS dengan Hamas adalah bukti dari “frustrasi” Trump terhadap Netanyahu, serta mengungkap tujuan administrasi AS sendiri, terutama: “membebaskan sandera, mengakhiri perang, perdamaian regional [dan] modal Saudi”, yang bersedia “mencapai … dengan cara apa pun”.