Increased Pressure on Hamas Ahead of Trump’s Middle East Visit
Ongoing Negotiations and Hostage Situations
As negotiations for a hostage deal stall, a senior Israeli official revealed that both Egypt and Qatar are intensifying pressure on Hamas ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the region. Scheduled for May 13-16, Trump’s visit coincides with plans for an expanded military operation in Gaza.
The proposed framework under discussion aims to secure the release of approximately half of the living hostages held by Hamas, paired with a 50-day ceasefire. However, Hamas remains resolute in demanding a comprehensive agreement that would conclude the ongoing conflict entirely.
Hamas’s Stance and Concerns
Bassam Naim, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, stated that efforts to devise a partial agreement are “desperate attempts” that rely on conditions such as the reduction of hostilities and the continuation of humanitarian aid, which he describes as tantamount to “ethnic cleansing.” He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s threats to resume military operations, stating that these attempts are insufficient to assure hostilities will cease.
Naim emphasized that the primary condition for Hamas remains a comprehensive resolution to the conflict, alongside assurances for peace and a clear roadmap for the post-conflict period.
Israeli Military Preparations
Chief of Staff Aviv Kochavi spoke with regional military commanders about preparations for Operation “Gideon’s Chariots.” During these meetings, Kochavi highlighted that previous operations aimed at securing a hostage deal had been met with resistance from Hamas.
He affirmed the military’s commitment to escalate operations, stressing the importance of bringing back the hostages and decisively defeating Hamas. “This is a campaign on willpower, determination, and endurance,” Kochavi stated.
Recent Developments in Hostage Situations
Reports indicate that the U.S. has proposed a new ceasefire plan, providing clearer parameters than previous discussions. This proposal includes the establishment of humanitarian corridors, limited hostage releases, and assurances regarding the welfare of those hostages not involved in the negotiations.
President Trump recently updated that currently, only 21 of the previously recorded 24 hostages are alive. In Israel, the military reports that 24 of the 59 hostages held by Hamas are considered living.
Strategic Military Timing
A senior security official indicated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will use the time leading up to Trump’s visit for preparation but will not initiate large-scale military operations in Gaza until after the visit concludes. This strategy is seen as a potential opportunity for negotiations concerning the hostage situation based on a model previously discussed within military and government circles.
It is anticipated that any military maneuvers will aim to secure areas that have been cleared around Gaza, protecting Israeli settlements and preventing weapon smuggling to Hamas, ensuring ongoing security in the region amidst escalating tensions.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts juxtaposed against military preparations, as both Israel and Hamas prepare for the potential outcomes of the upcoming discussions and military actions