Arab mediators are waiting for a formal response from Israel regarding a new ceasefire and hostage release proposal accepted by Hamas. This plan was introduced by Qatar and Egypt, aiming to prevent a potential comprehensive military offensive by Israel in Gaza. Qatar claims the proposal closely aligns with a U.S. initiative for a 60-day truce, during which negotiations would address the release of 20 surviving hostages and the broader terms for a lasting ceasefire.
Israel’s government has stated it will only accept a deal that includes the release of all hostages. A senior Israeli official reiterated this position, asserting that any agreements must meet specific conditions to conclude the conflict. Israeli military plans are currently under consideration by the cabinet, with discussions about actions in Gaza City intensifying due to mounting Israeli airstrikes.
In recent developments, Hamas announced that it had approved the ceasefire proposal conveyed by Egyptian and Qatari representatives. A Hamas official noted that the proposal is seen as a step towards a more comprehensive agreement and expressed hope that the ceasefire could lead to an end of hostilities.
The Qatari foreign ministry indicated that the proposal bears similarities to previous plans offered by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The earlier proposals had not met Hamas’s criteria, particularly the need for assurances that a temporary ceasefire would transition into a permanent one.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials are reviewing the response from Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that any agreement must include the immediate release of all hostages and adherence to specified conditions, including the disarmament of Hamas and a governance structure in Gaza that does not include Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.
Public sentiment appears divided, as demonstrations in Tel Aviv demand a resolution to the conflict and the safe return of hostages, while military actions continue. Data from Gaza indicates significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis, with high levels of displacement and destruction impacting essential services.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjeynvp409vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss