Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said Wednesday that Israel is serious about reaching a ceasefire agreement with Hamas and securing the return of hostages from Gaza, citing what he called “positive signs” in ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Speaking in Tallinn alongside Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, Saar confirmed that Israel had accepted proposals presented by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff. “We are serious in our will to reach a hostage deal and a ceasefire,” Saar said. “We said yes to Witkoff’s proposals.”
His remarks followed comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced on Tuesday that Israel had agreed to the necessary terms for a 60-day ceasefire and expressed hope Hamas would follow suit.
Saar stopped short of declaring a breakthrough but noted progress. “There are some positive signs. I don’t want to say more than that right now. But our goal is to begin proximity talks as soon as possible.”
He emphasized that responsibility for the conflict rests with Hamas. “Hamas is not only responsible for initiating this war on October 7, 2023. It is also responsible for its continuation. Pressure must be applied,” he said, calling on the international community to support the U.S.-led diplomatic push.
In a separate statement, Hamas said it was reviewing new ceasefire proposals from Egypt and Qatar. The group reiterated its demands for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a full end to hostilities.
Talks remain delicate, but recent signals from both sides suggest a renewed push to halt nearly nine months of war that has devastated Gaza and stalled hostage negotiations.
