US Backs Israel’s New Ceasefire Framework as Hostage Families Demand Immediate Release
The United States on Sunday voiced its support for Israel’s decision to condition the continuation of the Gaza ceasefire on a new framework that extends its first phase, rather than moving on to the second phase. This decision comes as families of hostages and activists in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem urge the government to adopt the second phase framework, which they say is essential for securing the immediate release of the remaining captives and ultimately ending the war.
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In a statement, the White House expressed backing for Israel’s approach in the ongoing hostage negotiations. However, it did not specifically confirm Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s description of the proposal—purportedly crafted by Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. An Arab official told The Times of Israel that the plan was “more of an Israeli plan,” distancing it from any attribution to Witkoff.
Under the new proposal, Israel would forgo the previously agreed second phase framework that called for the release of the remaining 59 hostages in two batches, scheduled for the period spanning the Ramadan and Passover holidays through April 19. Instead, this new outline aims to extend the current ceasefire framework, even as Netanyahu’s office announced Sunday morning that it had halted the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza following the expiration of the first phase of the deal on Saturday night.
