Israel Prepares Bold Map Proposal for Gaza Withdrawal Amid High-Stakes Talks in Qatar
Israel is set to present newly revised withdrawal maps during pivotal negotiation talks in Qatar on Sunday, according to Channel 12 News, in a bid to break the ongoing deadlock over the future of Gaza. The updated maps are expected to address critical areas like control of the Morag corridor and surrounding perimeters—territories that remain flashpoints in the contentious discussions.
But there’s a warning from Doha: Qatari officials reportedly told Israel that “the maps presented will not pass Hamas and may collapse the talks altogether.” Tensions are mounting as the maps could determine whether fragile diplomacy proceeds or shatters.
Palestinian sources told AFP that Hamas flatly rejected Israel’s previous proposals, citing that over 40% of Gaza remained under IDF control—an arrangement perceived not as withdrawal, but strategic redeployment. This criticism has become a major obstacle in finalizing any agreement.
Arab outlet Al-Hadath reports that mediators are anticipating a revised Israeli map submission by Saturday night, indicating behind-the-scenes urgency and pressure from global stakeholders.
Despite growing hopes—particularly in Washington—that a hostage deal might be imminent, weekend negotiations stalled. No major breakthroughs occurred, with Israel and Hamas still deeply divided, especially over the depth and visibility of an IDF exit strategy.
According to an Israeli political source, had Hamas accepted the latest Qatari framework, a deal could already have been signed—ushering in a 60-day negotiation window for a permanent ceasefire aligned with Israel’s long-term goals. Talks continue in Doha, even during Shabbat, with Israel’s team coordinating closely with Qatari and Egyptian mediators and maintaining real-time updates with Prime Minister Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.
Israel’s decision to dispatch its delegation followed its approval of the Qatari draft, showing a willingness to compromise. However, Hamas responded by hardening its position, launching a parallel media campaign aimed at discrediting Israel’s intentions, stirring unrest in Gaza, and amplifying public pressure within Israel itself.
While Israeli officials insist they’ve shown flexibility, they accuse Hamas of stonewalling the process—jeopardizing both the return of hostages and a pathway to calm.
Sunday’s map presentation could mark a turning point—or trigger another collapse. All eyes are now on Doha.
