Washington DC [US], March 15: The United States has put forward a “bridge” proposal to extend the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas beyond Ramadan and Passover, allowing more time to negotiate a permanent resolution to the ongoing conflict. The proposal was presented in Qatar on Wednesday by U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and National Security Council official Eric Trager.
The primary goal of the proposal is to extend the current phase-one ceasefire, facilitate the continuation of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and ensure that Hamas continues to release hostages in exchange for prisoners based on a previously established formula. Additionally, the United States seeks to use this extended ceasefire period as an opportunity to work towards a more lasting resolution to the conflict.
Witkoff emphasized that intermediaries, including Qatar and Hamas, had communicated to Hamas that the “bridge” proposal must be implemented promptly. He also noted that the U.S. is pushing for the immediate release of Edan Alexander, a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen.
Witkoff criticized Hamas for publicly claiming flexibility in ceasefire negotiations while privately making demands that he described as “impractical.” He warned Hamas that the deadline for the “bridge” proposal is approaching and stressed that failure to comply would lead to consequences.