Steve Witkoff warns Hamas: "Your window of opportunity is closing fast"

White House envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, responded today (Sunday) to Hamas' reaction to his proposal for continuing the hostage deal and ceasefire in Gaza. In his remarks, he clarified that Hamas' response does not allow for progress toward reaching a deal.

In an interview on CNN's "State of the Union," Witkoff addressed Hamas's statement about its agreement to release hostage Edan Alexander along with the bodies of four other hostages. "Hamas's offer is not relevant," he replied.

Witkoff said that he held a seven-and-a-half-hour meeting with negotiation teams in Doha last Wednesday, which led to the formulation of a "bridging proposal", which includes the release of five living Israeli hostages, including Alexander, in exchange for "a significant release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, which would be wonderful for their families."

He noted that Hamas took "two-three days" to respond, in accordance with its usual practice, but its answer was "unacceptable." He refused to elaborate on why. "Hamas has an opportunity, but it's closing quickly," he said.

Witkoff also referred to the extensive American attack on Houthi targets in Yemen over the weekend, claiming it reflects Washington's position toward terrorism and its level of tolerance for it. "I recommend Hamas demonstrate more wisdom than it has shown so far," he warned.

The details provided by Witkoff contradict the statement from Prime Minister Netanyahu's office last night, which claimed the proposal includes the release of 11 living hostages. However, Witkoff clarified that Israel was updated and was a partner in the process.

Zman Israel contributed to this article.