On January 13, 2025, a final draft agreement aimed at ending the Gaza war and securing the release of Israeli hostages was presented to Israel and Hamas by Qatari mediators. The negotiations involved key figures, including Steve Witkoff, a representative of President-elect Donald Trump, and leaders from Israel's intelligence agencies, Mossad and Shin Bet.
According to a source familiar with the talks, progress in the negotiations was reported after a meeting that took place late at night. The source indicated that the next 24 hours would be critical for reaching a conclusive agreement.
Israeli media reported that both Israeli and Hamas delegations received the draft in Qatar, with an Israeli official confirming that the country's leaders were informed. While neither side has confirmed that a final draft has been reached, both have acknowledged progress in discussions.
An Israeli senior official mentioned that if Hamas responds positively to the proposal, a deal could be finalized within days. A Palestinian official close to the negotiations described the information from Doha as 'very promising,' noting that differences are narrowing and there is significant pressure to achieve an agreement.
The upcoming inauguration of President-elect Trump on January 20 is viewed as an unofficial deadline. Trump has warned that if the hostages held by Hamas are not released before he takes office, there will be serious consequences. Current President Joe Biden has also been making efforts to secure a deal before leaving the White House.
The negotiations continued into the early hours of January 13, with Witkoff urging the Israeli delegation in Doha and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani pressuring Hamas officials to finalize the agreement.
Hassan Mahmoud Rashad, head of Egypt's General Intelligence, was also present in Qatar as part of the negotiations. Witkoff has made multiple trips to Qatar and Israel since late November, recently meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Biden emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of hostages during a phone call with Netanyahu on January 12, advocating for increased humanitarian aid amidst the ongoing conflict.
Both parties have generally agreed on principles for a ceasefire in exchange for the release of Hamas hostages and Palestinian prisoners in Israel. However, Hamas insists that the agreement must lead to a permanent end to the war and Israel's withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel has stated that hostilities will not cease until Hamas is dismantled.