An Israeli official says a long-sought ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas could materialize in the coming week—if no new obstacles are raised.
Jerusalem / Doha — An Israeli official on Saturday expressed cautious optimism that a ceasefire agreement and hostage release deal with Hamas could be finalized as early as the coming week, provided negotiations stay on track.
“The talks are progressing slowly, but they are progressing,” the official told Channel 12 News. “The direction is positive. We’ve overcome a significant obstacle and are continuing with hope for a breakthrough.”
Negotiations remain intensive, the official noted, and the possibility of U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff traveling to Doha for direct engagement in the coming days has not been ruled out. However, no senior Israeli delegation is currently scheduled to accompany Minister Ron Dermer to the next round of discussions in Qatar.
Despite the progress, the official emphasized that Hamas has repeatedly introduced last-minute complications, stalling the conclusion of an agreement on several occasions over the past two weeks.
In response to recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump—who suggested that another group of hostages would be released soon—the Israeli source confirmed that key issues remain unresolved. These include the release of security prisoners and the distribution of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Still, the tone from Jerusalem is one of measured optimism, hinging on whether Hamas will maintain its current trajectory or again raise new demands.
