Mort Klein urges U.S. and Israel to press beyond hostage pause toward full dismantling of Hamas

By Ron East

(July 5, 2025 / The J.CA) Edan Alexander’s meeting at the White House comes at a pivotal moment in U.S.–Israel efforts to broker a hostage-ceasefire deal with Hamas, Morton “Mort” Klein of the Zionist Organization of America said Sunday. Klein warned that any ceasefire must not allow Hamas to return to its pre‑October 6, 2023 operational posture.

Alexander was welcomed by President Trump and First Lady Melania on Thursday, marking his first White House visit since his release in May following 584 days in Hamas captivity. He joined the meeting to urge the continuation of efforts on behalf of the remaining 50 hostages still held by Hamas.

Klein said the U.S.-brokered framework now debated includes a 60-day pause during which Hamas would release hostages in exchange for a temporary ceasefire and humanitarian aid. However, Klein cautioned that this pause must not turn into a strategic regrouping phase for Hamas.

Global reports suggest that Hamas has responded positively to the proposed framework, which includes the phased return of around 30 living and deceased hostages in exchange for a reciprocal release of Palestinian prisoners, aid flows, and partial Israeli withdrawal.

Klein also denounced Hamas’s manipulation of humanitarian aid, claiming the terrorist group uses UN and other relief channels to bolster its war-making capabilities. He called on President Trump to implement strict oversight on all aid shipments during any ceasefire period.

He added that Israel must adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward Hamas during any pause in fighting, drawing a parallel with Israel’s current hard stance on Hezbollah in Lebanon. “Israel cannot and should not allow Hamas to return to its Oct. 6, 2023, position,” Klein said.

The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are reportedly working to finalize the framework, with discussions centered on phased releases, monitoring of humanitarian aid, and future negotiations. Hamas is said to have expressed cautious optimism, though details remain in flux.

Alexander’s White House appearance also coincides with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s expected visit to Washington, as both nations seek a coordinated approach to secure the full release of hostages and degrade Hamas’s military capacity.

This article was originally published in the J.CA and can be viewed here.