Hamas's proposed terms for a truce, as stated by Netanyahu, deemed unacceptable
In the ongoing efforts to establish a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, the latest proposal between Israel and Hamas is fraught with several key points of contention.
The proposal, which includes the staggered release of 10 living hostages and 15 bodies over a 60-day period, has been met with mixed responses. While Hamas has responded positively, concerns have been raised about the number of hostages to be released initially, as Hamas is currently holding about 20 living hostages.
One of the major sticking points remains the demand by Hamas for a guaranteed end to the war in Gaza as part of any agreement. This request, however, has not been agreed upon by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Another unresolved issue is the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for hostages, a practice that Hamas has consistently sought in negotiations. Additionally, Hamas has requested clarifications on the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the continuation of the ceasefire after its initial 60-day duration.
In a bid to facilitate discussions on a permanent ceasefire, the 60-day temporary ceasefire period is also part of the proposal. Moreover, Hamas has requested unhindered access for humanitarian aid to the sealed coastal region of Gaza.
In response to these negotiations, Netanyahu has ordered the dispatch of a delegation for indirect talks with Hamas in Doha, Qatar. The response was delivered to Qatar and Egypt on Friday. Netanyahu is scheduled to meet President Trump at the White House on Monday, and he is reportedly set to travel to Washington on the same day.
Despite the ongoing discussions, the status of two abduction victims remains unclear. According to Israeli intelligence, at least 20 hostages are still alive.
[1] Source: The Times of Israel, Haaretz, and Al Jazeera.
The proposal's demand for a guaranteed end to the war-and-conflicts in Gaza, as part of any agreement, is controversial and has not been agreed upon by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In politics, Hamas's persistent request for the release of a specific number of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages continues to be a contentious issue.
