More bad news for the hostage families

A senior Israeli official has cast doubt on prospects for a new hostage release deal with Hamas, marking a sharp reversal from recent optimistic signals, sources revealed Wednesday morning.

"No one can say whether a deal will materialize at this point," the high-ranking official told Israel Hayom, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of ongoing negotiations.

The official indicated that Hamas has hardened its position, reintroducing demands that Israel commit to ending the war entirely before any hostage releases can begin. "This is a non-starter for any responsible Israeli official," the source emphasized.

Even if Hamas shows sudden flexibility, questions remain about the group's actual ability to deliver hostages, given the extensive damage to their infrastructure in Gaza. The role of Mohammed Sinwar, brother of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, is particularly concerning. Mohammed reportedly rescinded an earlier agreement to provide a list of surviving hostages.

The development comes as a devastating blow to families of the hostages, who had been encouraged by recent reports of progress in negotiations. While the official maintained that "a breakthrough could happen at any moment," the current outlook appears increasingly uncertain.

This setback follows weeks of cautious optimism about a possible second hostage release deal.