Hamas just tried to rewrite the script of a U.S.-proposed ceasefire, and President Trump’s envoy doesn’t have it.

According to the New York Post, Hamas claimed it received a U.S. deal for a 70-day truce, but Steve Witkoff, Trump’s special envoy, says their version mangles his original proposal, stalling talks. Israel, unsurprisingly, rejected Hamas’ tweaked terms, while Hamas demanded a full Israeli exit from Gaza for any lasting peace.

Back in February 2025, Hamas’ Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades handed over three Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza’s Nuseirat camp. That move followed a fragile ceasefire that kicked off in January but collapsed by March 18, when Israel resumed its military push.

Hamas’ Claims Spark Controversy

Hamas’ so-called proposal included releasing five live hostages and demanded Israel partially withdraw from Gaza. It also called for freeing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, many locked up for serious crimes. Sounds like they’re trying to dictate terms while holding hostages.

Witkoff’s actual deal was far different: 10 living and 19 dead hostages were released for a 45- to 60-day pause. His plan also included swapping Palestinian prisoners but aimed for a path to permanent peace. Hamas’ version? A blatant rewrite.

“What I have seen from Hamas is disappointing and completely unacceptable,” Witkoff told Axios. He’s not wrong—Hamas’ sleight of hand undermines any trust in negotiations. Actions, it seems, have consequences.

Israel Rejects Hamas’ Demands

Israel agreed to Witkoff’s deal, which promised a roadmap to end the conflict. But Hamas’ insistence on a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza for all remaining hostages from the October 7, 2023, attack threw a wrench in the works. No shock there—Hamas loves moving the goalposts.

“No responsible Israeli government could accept it,” Netanyahu’s office declared about Hamas’ proposal. They’ve got a point—agreeing to a deal that smells like capitulation isn’t exactly leadership. Hamas’ demands read like a fantasy novel, not a serious offer.

By March 20, 2025, Hamas was back to its old tricks, launching rocket attacks on Israel after the ceasefire fell apart. It’s almost as if they prefer chaos over compromise. Hard to negotiate with folks who’d rather lob missiles than talk.

Witkoff Pushes for Progress

“I agreed to lead these negotiations,” Witkoff told CNN on May 26, 2025. He’s clearly frustrated, and who wouldn’t be when Hamas keeps rewriting the playbook? The man’s trying to broker peace, not play whack-a-mole with bad-faith actors.

The ceasefire “will lead to meaningful negotiations to find a path to a permanent ceasefire,” Witkoff added on CNN. His optimism is admirable, but Hamas’ track record suggests they’re more interested in stalling than signing. Wishful thinking meets cold reality.

Israel, meanwhile, remains steadfast. Netanyahu’s office insists the war ends only when Hamas is eradicated. Tough stance, but when your enemy holds hostages and demands you abandon your security, it’s hard to blame them.

Stalemate Threatens Lasting Peace

Hamas’ alterations to the U.S. proposal have left talks in limbo. Witkoff’s deal offered a balanced path forward, but Hamas’s insistence on a full Gaza withdrawal feels like a non-starter. It’s like they’re betting on Israel blinking first—good luck with that.

The collapse of the January ceasefire shows how fragile these deals are. Israel’s renewed campaign and Hamas’ rocket attacks prove both sides are dug in. Compromise seems as distant as a desert mirage.

Yet Witkoff’s still at the table, urging Hamas to accept his deal. It’s a long shot, but if Hamas wants peace, they’ll need to stop rewriting the terms. Here’s hoping they figure out that trust, not tricks, builds bridges.