Israel Gives Hamas Ultimatum: Deal on Hostages or Offensive on Rafah

(Patria) - The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) yesterday published that the Israeli government has given Hamas an ultimatum, offering it two options - either agree to a deal on hostages or Israel will launch an offensive on Rafah.

The report published by WSJ cites Egyptian officials, according to whom Hamas has until next Friday to declare itself.

Israel has given the green light to Hamas's political leadership for the latest proposed agreement, and delegations are expected to arrive in Cairo in the coming days to discuss it.

However, it should be noted that Hamas leaders have not yet responded to the proposal, and it is questionable whether they have even seen it, WSJ writes.

Nevertheless, Egyptian officials, who spoke to WSJ on condition of anonymity, point out that Hamas members are angry because the ceasefire proposals are not entirely clear.

"Hamas wants a long-term ceasefire backed by American guarantees that Israel will adhere to all conditions and fears that the current proposal will allow Israel to continue fighting for a short period," it is stated.

According to the WSJ report, the offer now on the table includes a first phase that would last up to 40 days, during which 33 Israeli hostages would be released. During this period, the parties would begin negotiations on a permanent ceasefire.

The second phase would last at least six weeks, and the parties would agree to a larger release of hostages and commit to a longer pause in fighting, WSJ explains.

For all of this, Israel has given Hamas a seven-day deadline to declare itself.

"If it does not agree to the deal, the Israeli army will launch its long-promised offensive on the southernmost city of Gaza - Rafah," the analysis adds.

It is also pointed out that Hamas will likely respond to Israel's latest proposal with its own offer and certain amendments. Likewise, it is added that Hamas will not completely reject the Israeli proposal.