Former Israeli official Yossi Amrusi has put forth a bold two-pronged strategy as the only way to free the remaining hostages captured during the October 7, 2023 attacks by Hamas. The plan proposes a dual approach combining humanitarian zones to isolate Gazans from Hamas and direct negotiations with those holding the hostages, according to reports in Israeli outlets like Maariv and The Jerusalem Post.
Amrusi argued that Hamas benefits from prolonged negotiations, suggesting that decisive action is required to force their release. He emphasized the importance of separating Gazans from Hamas through designated humanitarian zones, which would cut off their access to aid. Additionally, he proposed local negotiations with the hostage takers, offering money and their lives in exchange for the hostages’ release.
The U.S. and Israel have pulled their negotiating teams from Qatar, indicating a shift in strategy as Hamas has been perceived as uncooperative. In a statement, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff stated that Hamas’ latest response ‘clearly shows a lack of desire to reach a ceasefire.’ The Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has echoed this stance, asserting that Hamas is the main obstacle to a hostage release deal.
Amrusi also cast doubt on Qatar’s ability to mediate effectively, questioning whether they have communication with Hamas’ leadership. He highlighted the uncertainty about who in Hamas has control over the hostages and the conditions they are in. The Israeli government has maintained it is doing its part to get aid to Gaza, however, the foreign ministry recently called out media outlets for misrepresenting the situation, suggesting that the image of an emaciated child was due to a medical condition rather than starvation.
Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has raised concerns over the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging the U.S. to take a stronger role. Trump, who recently met with Starmer in Scotland, acknowledged the severity of the situation, although he expressed skepticism over the extent of the starvation crisis. Israel has emphasized its responsibility for the situation but is constrained by the need to secure the release of its hostages.
These developments underscore the complexity of the ongoing conflict, with various actors seeking solutions that balance humanitarian aid, security, and political negotiations. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains closely watching the dynamics at play in the hope of finding a resolution to the crisis.