2025 July 17 – Gaza/Tel Aviv/Cairo
Live Update – July 17 @ 09:00 GMT — A senior negotiator tells i24NEWS that Hamas could provide an “optimistic” response within 24 hours to the ceasefire proposal being brokered, suggesting potential breakthrough in lengthy talks and marking a possible breakthrough for Hamas to accept the proposal for ceasefire talks on YouTube and via i24NEWS.
Background Israel has already agreed to the terms of a ceasefire deal–including phased hostages release–after consultations between Israeli Minister Ron Dermer and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff (i24NEWS +4)
Now, all eyes are focused on Hamas’ next move.
Timeline of Events
Hamas Received Proposal: Last week, Hamas was provided with a Qatar-mediated plan based on the Witkoff framework from Qatar which details their release of ten Israeli hostages on Day 1, then two on Day 50 each day thereafter in exchange for a 60 day ceasefire and 60-day truce (I24NEWS +9 as reported on i24NEWS.).
Israeli Approval: Israel has given their stamp of approval, signaling serious intent to suspend hostilities. While specifics remain undisclosed, operational details have been included within the plan for implementation.
Hamas Reaction: According to i24NEWS sources, Hamas has taken an optimistic view towards this proposal and are reviewing it with cautious optimism, according to sources at i24NEWS and YouTube (both inclusive). What’s at Stake: According to YouTube (inclusive) and i24NEWS (+10) sources indicate Hamas initially took an optimistic stance toward reviewing this agreement with cautious optimism as reported on by sources within Hamas themselves (inclusive of cautious optimism in reviewing YouTube/i24NEWS +10) (sources suggest). What’s at Stake: According to sources at i24NEWS sources suggest Hamas initially took positive stance towards reviewing it with cautious optimism whilst reviewing all proposals that pertains for inclusion with various groups involved parties reportedly. What Is At Stake Between Hamas and Gaza/i24NEWS). What Is At Stake Between Hamas and Egypt/US: Hamas/Isis Reviewing Proposals With Positive Intent). Whilst Concern for Hamas/i24NEWS +10 each of These Proposals The Stake From Hamas? These include YouTube +10, I 24NEWS +10 and are reviewing them with cautious optimism for inclusion, according to these publications: (Video +10 or YouTube for that matter). What Is At Stake Between These Proposals being Review Went || I 24NEWS 18 NeWS on 24NEWS | I 24NEWS 9 24NEWS @ 24NEWS+10 for +10? | I 24NEWS 9 Outlines are at Stake: Allowed W/NEWS;
Hostage Release: Assuming deal activation, eight hostages should be freed immediately, with two more released over six weeks.
Ceasefire Plan: Should Hamas agree, a 60-day truce could start, potentially ending one of the deadliest phases in Gaza conflict history.
Mediators from Egypt, Qatar, the U.S. and U.N. have intensified shuttle diplomacy efforts to close remaining gaps, including security guarantees and aid delivery.
Obstacles and Risks
Hamas remains divided internally; certain leaders oppose any agreement that does not provide for an Israeli withdrawal completely from Gaza.
Israeli Skepticism: Certain factions within Israel’s government remain suspicious of Hamas. They believe past ceasefires were broken too easily and fear humanitarian pauses could be exploited for rearmament purposes.
Fragile Trust: Even if Hamas offers its acceptance, logistical issues such as exchange coordination, monitoring mechanisms and third-party oversight could scupper any planned rollout.
What to Watch Over the Next 24 Hours Key Focus Details Hamas Response Should Come “Within 24 hours”, an optimistic yet uncertain timeline. Aid and Security Negotiators Discuss Possible International Observers in Gaza
Israeli Political Reaction Hardline ministers such as Smotrich and Ben-Gvir have expressed concerns over any agreement which doesn’t call for full demilitarization.
Summary
Deal Overview: Israel-backed and Qatar-mediated plans offer a 60-day truce for staged hostage release.
Hamas Standpoint: According to reports, Hamas appears to be moving optimistically toward acceptance of Israel.
Next Steps: An official response should arrive within 24 hours and, if confirmed, could lead to immediate cessation and hostage release phases.