Hamas engages in discussions with Palestinian factions regarding a potential truce agreement.
In a significant development, a proposed 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza conflict is under discussion, mediated by the USA, Egypt, and Qatar. The ceasefire aims to pause hostilities in exchange for hostage releases and the start of political negotiations, with U.S. backing ensuring compliance by Israel, while Hamas requires assurances against a quick return to war.
The ceasefire, if agreed upon, is set to last for 60 days. Hamas has agreed to release ten living Israeli hostages and 18 deceased ones during this period, with eight captives released on the first day and two on the 50th day. The Islamist group is examining the proposed deal "with great responsibility."
Israel, on the other hand, has reportedly agreed to the "necessary conditions" for the ceasefire. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would maintain their position in the original perimeter of the buffer zone plus an additional 250 meters during the ceasefire. Israel would also cease military operations in Gaza as long as peace talks continue.
The proposal also includes starting talks on Gaza’s post-war governance arrangements. However, Hamas has indicated conditions aimed at making it more difficult for Israel to resume hostilities if a permanent ceasefire is not achieved after 60 days, such as the gradual release of hostages.
The attack by Hamas and Islamic terrorist organizations on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages taken to Gaza. Since the attack, more than 56,000 Palestinians have reportedly died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-controlled health authority. At least 20 hostages are still alive in the Gaza Strip, according to official Israeli figures.
Israel's security cabinet has reportedly met to discuss the details of a possible ceasefire. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has been involved in discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to finalize the deal. Hamas is consulting with other Palestinian groups about the proposed ceasefire.
Elsewhere, Iran has expressed a desire to engage in talks with Trump, and there are reported indirect efforts to revive the search for a diplomatic solution to the conflict over Iran's nuclear program. Iran had closed its airspace on June 13 at the start of Israeli attacks, and a ceasefire has been in place for nearly a week and a half now.
In other news, both main airports in Tehran have resumed operations after a week-long closure, according to a decision by the civil aviation authority. Airports in northwest Tabriz and the central cultural hub of Isfahan remain closed for now. The newspaper reported that Hamas wants guarantees that the two-month ceasefire will lead to a permanent end to the fighting.
The number of deaths does not distinguish between civilians and fighters. This ongoing conflict underscores the need for a peaceful resolution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. As negotiations continue, the hope for a lasting peace in the region remains a shared goal for many.
The proposed 60-day ceasefire, if agreed upon, includes discussions on Gaza's post-war governance arrangements, with both Israel and Hamas engaging in political news and negotiations. Hamas is examining the proposed deal with great responsibility, while Israel has agreed to necessary conditions, including maintenance of their enhanced buffer zone and cessation of military operations during the ceasefire.
