Hamas offers a favorable response to the newly proposed ceasefire for Gaza
In a significant development, Hamas has expressed a positive response to a ceasefire proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar, and is prepared to enter into negotiations to finalise its implementation. The proposal, backed by the U.S., aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which began in October 2023 when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, resulting in the death of approximately 1,200 people and the taking of around 250 hostages.
The ceasefire proposal, which is supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, involves a 60-day ceasefire guaranteed by the U.S., during which Israel would halt all hostilities in Gaza. Key provisions of the proposal include the release of hostages and bodies in phases, substantial humanitarian assistance, and a restriction on Israeli military activity.
However, Hamas has placed reservations on some key points. For instance, Hamas wants the condition of extending the ceasefire beyond 60 days to be removed, fearing it could be exploited to resume hostilities prematurely. Additionally, Hamas seeks explicit assurances that talks on a permanent ceasefire will continue until a final agreement is reached, a point that Israel opposes out of concern that Hamas might prolong negotiations indefinitely.
Israel, too, has agreed to the terms of the proposal, with ongoing negotiations between the parties to address the remaining concerns. U.S. President Trump has reportedly guaranteed the ceasefire and urged Hamas to accept the deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to visit Washington, D.C., on Monday to meet with President Trump at the White House.
Meanwhile, more than 170 humanitarian groups have called for the disbandment of the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) and the reorganisation of all aid efforts in Gaza under the United Nations-led system. The GHF, which is backed by the U.S. and Israel, has been under scrutiny due to reports of civilians being killed while trying to access humanitarian supplies, with at least 640 civilians shot to death in recent weeks.
In the midst of these negotiations, it remains to be seen whether a lasting peace can be achieved in Gaza. Both parties will need to address the remaining concerns and work towards a mutually beneficial solution. The international community will continue to watch closely as these negotiations unfold.
The ceasefire proposal supported by U.S. President Donald Trump includes humanitarian assistance, yet certain humanitarian groups have called for the reorganization of aid efforts in Gaza, due to concerns about civilian casualties. Meanwhile, Hamas seeks to extend negotiations beyond the initial 60-day ceasefire period and gain explicit assurances for continued talks, while Israel has expressed concerns about Hamas potentially prolonging negotiations indefinitely. As Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, plans to meet with President Trump at the White House, the international community will closely observe if both parties can reach a mutually beneficial solution and achieve a lasting peace in Gaza. Additionally, general news outlets may also report on health concerns related to the persistent conflict, war-and-conflicts, politics, and the overall weather conditions impacting the region throughout these negotiations.
