An Israeli source familiar with the negotiations told CNN that "Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar wants a ceasefire agreement," clarifying that this is the message conveyed by Egyptian and Qatari mediators to Israeli officials in recent days, ahead of a decisive meeting later this week. Uncertainty still surrounds whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seeks that agreement. Netanyahu's allies stated that the Israeli Prime Minister is prepared to finalize a deal, regardless of its impact on his ruling coalition. However, the Israeli security establishment remains largely skeptical about Netanyahu's willingness to strike a deal, given the fierce opposition from far-right ministers in his coalition. An Israeli source remarked, "No one knows what Bibi wants," referring to Netanyahu by his nickname.
What is clear is that Netanyahu will face immense pressure from the United States this week to agree to a ceasefire deal and release the hostages. The Israeli source noted that U.S. officials have made it clear to their Israeli counterparts that they believe it is time to reach a ceasefire agreement now to avoid a broader regional war. Mediators are scheduled to meet with the negotiation teams from Israel and Hamas in Cairo or Doha next Thursday. However, the Israeli source stated that negotiations are already underway, as technical delegations work "around the clock" on key details ahead of Thursday's meeting.
