David Friedman, the former US Ambassador to Israel, urged those critical of the potential hostage exchange and ceasefire deal with Hamas to show “humility” rather than declaring with “certainty” that the agreement would be detrimental to Israel. He emphasized that he is not in a position to challenge the decision of Israel’s Prime Minister regarding the deal to bring back hostages, even if gradually. This decision, according to Friedman, has the backing of Israel’s military and intelligence leadership. Additionally, he pointed out that he does not have full access to the details of the negotiations and is not fully aware of all the risks and rewards involved. Furthermore, he stressed that the agreement would not require Israel to end its ongoing military actions. “I am not smart enough to second guess a decision of the Prime Minister of Israel to make a deal for the return, albeit phased, of the hostages — especially when (1) that decision is endorsed by leadership of the IDF, the Shabak and the Mossad, (2) I have not been privy to the negotiations and don’t fully appreciate all the risks and benefits, and (3) the deal will not require Israel to end the war,” Friedman wrote in a post on X on Wednesday.

Friedman acknowledged the complexity of the decision, recognizing that reasonable people could have differing opinions on the matter. He noted that while a perfect solution would involve rescuing the hostages without releasing terrorists, 15 months have passed, and this outcome does not seem achievable. He added, “I understand that reasonable minds may differ — this an agonizing and extremely difficult decision. Obviously, rescuing the hostages or making a deal for their return without freeing terrorists would be far better. But 15 months have passed and that does not appear to be achievable.”

Friedman also expressed his respect for differing viewpoints but conveyed his disapproval of those who firmly believe the deal would be a significant mistake. He emphasized that the outcome remains uncertain, and the deal could ultimately be either a misstep or the correct decision. “I respect different points of view. What I respect far less is the certainty among some well-meaning folks that this is a huge mistake,” he stated. He concluded by urging a balanced approach to such a challenging issue, emphasizing the need for “humility, analysis, respect and compassion.” “It may turn out to be a mistake, it may turn out to be exactly the right move. But, either way, let’s approach this with the humility, analysis, respect and compassion that such an extraordinarily difficult problem requires.”

Israeli sources revealed to Channel 12 News that there has been significant progress in reaching a deal, with final details being worked out. “There is a breakthrough, we’re working on tying up the last loose ends before a final agreement,” they said. The deal under consideration would involve a 42-day ceasefire in several phases. In the initial phase, lasting 16 days, Hamas would release around 33 or 34 of the 98 hostages still held in Gaza. In return, Israel would free approximately 1,000 terrorists, many of whom are serving life sentences for involvement in deadly attacks. During this phase, talks would continue to secure the release of the remaining hostages and discuss a longer-term ceasefire arrangement. Additionally, the IDF would refrain from fully withdrawing from Gaza until the ceasefire concludes at the end of six weeks.

Opponents of the deal have pointed out the absence of any assurances that all hostages will be freed and have expressed concerns that the agreement could allow Hamas to retain power in Gaza, thereby enabling the group to rebuild its military capabilities and pose a renewed threat to Israel. The Religious Zionism and Otzma Yehudit parties have warned that they will push to dissolve the government if the deal is finalized in its current form.

{Matzav.com}