Israel Reportedly Agrees in Principle to Ceasefire-Hostage Deal Mediated by U.S. Envoy

Report by Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

In a significant development, Israel has reportedly given preliminary approval to a draft ceasefire and hostage release agreement with Hamas, according to Lebanese broadcaster Al-Mayadeen. The outlet, which is aligned with Hezbollah, cited an anonymous Palestinian official familiar with the negotiations.

The report, citing an unnamed Palestinian official, claims the proposed agreement includes a 70-day ceasefire, during which 10 hostages—five alive and five deceased—would be released in two phases. The deal is said to be a modified version of the Witkoff outline, previously used in successful negotiations.

While the Israeli government has not confirmed the report, the details suggest a renewed push to end the conflict and secure the release of remaining hostages. The draft also includes provisions for formal negotiations aimed at ending the war during the ceasefire period.

The talks were reportedly mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Palestinian-American businessman Bishara Bahbah. Both figures previously played a key role in brokering the release of U.S.-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander earlier this month.

Though some aspects of the deal are believed to originate from Hamas, Al-Mayadeen noted that modifications may still occur, and all parties are now awaiting Israel’s official response.

As of now, 58 hostages remain in Gaza, including 20 believed to be alive, 35 confirmed dead, and three others whose conditions raise serious concerns, according to Israeli officials. The body of an IDF soldier killed in 2014 is also believed to be held in Gaza.

The potential breakthrough comes amid intensifying public pressure in Israel, where citizens have continued to demonstrate for the safe return of hostages and an end to the prolonged conflict.