Israel’s Critical Decision Looms as Hamas Accepts New Gaza Ceasefire Proposal

The international community awaits a pivotal response from Israel after Hamas announced its acceptance of a new ceasefire and hostage release deal for Gaza. Mediators, led by Qatar and Egypt, presented the proposal, which Hamas confirmed it had approved, bringing a glimmer of hope to the intense conflict.

The proposed agreement, described by Qatar as “almost identical” to a previous US-backed plan, outlines a 60-day truce. During this period, approximately half of the estimated 50 hostages held in Gaza, including 20 believed to be alive, would be released. This initial phase would also pave the way for negotiations aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire and the return of all remaining captives.

Despite Hamas’s acceptance, Israel’s stance remains a critical hurdle. Senior Israeli officials have reiterated that their position on a comprehensive deal, ensuring the release of all hostages and fulfillment of other conditions to end the war, has not changed. This comes as the Israeli cabinet is reportedly preparing to approve a military plan to occupy Gaza City, a move that has already displaced thousands. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously stated Israel’s intent to conquer all of Gaza following the breakdown of earlier ceasefire talks.

Hamas official Taher al-Nunu emphasized that the group sought no amendments to the proposal, viewing it as a “partial deal leading to a comprehensive deal.” He expressed hope that the 60-day ceasefire would be sufficient to finalize a permanent agreement. Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman, Majed al-Ansari, confirmed the proposal’s close resemblance to the “Witkoff plan,” which Israel had previously accepted but Hamas rejected due to the lack of a guarantee for a permanent ceasefire. The current proposal appears to address this concern, setting the stage for direct negotiations on a permanent cessation of hostilities from day one of its implementation.

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