Gaza: The Palestinian militant group Hamas has agreed to a new proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, pending clarification, it said in a statement on its Telegram channel. 'Hamas has given the mediators a positive response,' the statement confirmed, indicating a willingness to engage in indirect negotiations on the proposal's implementation. However, the statement did not provide further details or conditions.
According to Ghana News Agency, Hamas forwarded the proposal from mediating states Egypt, Qatar, and the US to Qatari negotiators with a 'positive response.' A representative of the organization, who wished to remain anonymous, highlighted the need for clarification regarding the continuation of the ceasefire beyond the initial 60-day period, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to the area.
The mediators recently presented a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in the conflict that erupted after the mass attack by Hamas fighters on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. US President Donald Trump commented that Israel has agreed to the 'necessary conditions' for finalizing the ceasefire.
The specific terms of the new proposal remain unclear. However, Israeli and international media report that the deal includes the release of 10 hostages and the return of 18 abductees' bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Previous ceasefire attempts failed due to differing views between Israel and Hamas. During the limited ceasefire, both sides are expected to negotiate a permanent cessation of hostilities.
Hamas demands an agreement leading to an effective end to the war, while Israel seeks to retain the right to military action if negotiations after the 60 days do not produce a resolution.
