A senior Israeli official told Walla on Saturday that, contrary to comments made by US President Donald Trump, no significant breakthrough has been achieved in negotiations over a hostage release deal and a ceasefire in Gaza.
There has been no substantial change in either Israel's or Hamas’s fundamental positions, particularly regarding Hamas’s demand for guarantees that the war will be permanently ended, the official told Walla.
“There has been some willingness on both sides to show flexibility on certain formulations, but not in a way that alters their positions on the core issues,” the official said.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a meeting on the hostage issue on Friday and is expected to hold another discussion on the matter on Sunday.
Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, who heads the Israeli negotiating team, is scheduled to travel to Washington on Monday. Dermer is expected to meet with White House envoy Steve Witkoff, who is leading the Trump administration’s efforts to broker a ceasefire agreement.
Witkoff’s representative in the talks with Hamas, Palestinian-American businessman Bashara Bahbah, has been in Cairo in recent days, where a mid-level Hamas delegation has been holding discussions with senior Egyptian intelligence officials.
A source familiar with the matter told Walla that Witkoff has privately expressed optimism in recent days, claiming the gaps between the sides have narrowed. However, Israeli officials described that assessment as overly optimistic and not reflective of the current situation on the ground.
Trump: Ceasefire in Gaza could be reached next week
Trump addressed the war in Gaza on Friday during a press conference at the White House, expressing hope that a ceasefire could be reached within a week.
“We think we’ll have a ceasefire in Gaza by next week. I think it’s close. I’ve spoken to people who are involved,” he said in response to a question about the administration’s involvement in efforts to end the war.
Trump noted that the US has been providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, including food and financial assistance.
“In theory, we’re not involved — but in practice, we are, because people are dying,” he said. “There are people without food or anything. We’re the ones getting it in. Some of it gets stolen and sold. The line for one meal is enormous. No one else is helping. We’re doing it on a humanitarian basis.”
“We’re working on helping Gaza. We’re sending a lot there,” he added. “Other countries should help as well.”