Hamas might be able to sidestep Israel’s plans for the Gaza Strip and receive humanitarian aid if they agree to a ceasefire framework proposed by US special envoys. However, time is running short, as noted by Israel’s ambassador to the UN on Monday.
According to Danny Danon, Hamas needs to release more than half of the 23 hostages believed to be alive by the end of this week to avert a major Israeli military operation in Gaza. “Israel is gearing up for a large-scale action. We’re not trying to conceal that. Our military is prepared,” he stated. “If negotiations don’t progress, we will resort to military pressure to recover the hostages and dismantle Hamas.”
“If Envoy Witkoff’s preliminary framework is accepted, we might avoid this operation, but time is quickly running out,” he added.
Danon urged Hamas to take the proposal seriously, indicating that once the Israeli Defense Forces advance, there’s no turning back. When asked what Hamas would need to agree to, he expressed that the Israeli leadership is keen on the upcoming visit to the Middle East this week.
“I think we have just a few more days for the President,” he reflected. “This is the window to make something happen.”
If Hamas consents, Israel would initiate a ceasefire with other militant groups and distribute humanitarian aid to Gaza via private companies, steering clear of international organizations like the UN or the Red Cross, Danon mentioned.
He believes Hamas understands the gravity of the situation, mentioning, “It’s not just talk; we have concrete plans ready.” Danon added that the Israeli population is being encouraged to evacuate the northern areas as military actions could intensify.
“It’s their choice—wait a few months to find themselves in a tougher position in Gaza or negotiate now,” he said.
On another note, Hamas captured Edan Alexander, the last remaining American hostage, following talks with the US. Danon expressed hope that Alexander’s release could lead to freeing many more hostages.
“President Trump is heading to the Middle East, and there’s hope that Edan Alexander’s release could pave the way for more hostages to return,” he said. “Perhaps this could open doors thanks to President Trump’s engagement in the region.”
