Egyptian mediators put forward what many saw as a promising framework for a Gaza ceasefire last month, but behind-the-scenes Qatar may be derailing its chances.

The Egyptian plan, proposed after Israel resumed military operations in Gaza on March 18th, outlined a phased approach beginning with the release of five Israeli hostages, followed by additional releases every 7-10 days. In return, Israel would release dozens of imprisoned terrorists for each hostage and maintain a ceasefire throughout the process while partially withdrawing from Gaza.

However, Israeli military sources tell Israel Hayom that Qatari officials have actively encouraged Hamas to reject Egypt’s proposal, insisting better terms await if the terrorist organization holds firm.

“Without Qatari interference, Hamas might have already accepted Egypt’s recent proposal,” one senior Israeli official said, citing mounting pressure from IDF operations, humanitarian aid suspensions, and diplomatic efforts from both Egypt and Palestinian Authority chairman Mahmoud Abbas.

Instead, Qatar has promised Hamas a potentially more favorable agreement including release of all hostages in exchange for ending the war completely. Such an arrangement would feature a 5-7 year ceasefire with international guarantees and full IDF withdrawal from Gaza.

Ineffective Israeli negotiation efforts have also reportedly compounded difficulties. One source described Minister Ron Dermer’s negotiation leadership as “between borderline and negative,” failing to adequately pressure American counterparts to influence Qatari mediators.

Meanwhile, the IDF has developed plans to mobilize several reserve divisions, capture additional territories in Gaza, and increase direct confrontation with Hamas terrorists. While Security Cabinet members have reviewed operational frameworks, final approval remains pending as officials attempt one final diplomatic push.