Hamas has put forward a ceasefire proposal designed to halt hostilities in Gaza for a period of four-and-a-half months, with the ultimate aim of ending the ongoing conflict. This proposal was made in response to a prior initiative facilitated by Qatari and Egyptian mediators and supported by the United States and Israel.
According to a draft document obtained by Reuters, the Hamas counterproposal outlines a plan consisting of three phases, each lasting 45 days. The proposed plan includes the exchange of remaining Israeli hostages captured on October 7 for Palestinian prisoners, commencement of Gaza’s reconstruction, complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the exchange of bodies and remains.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Israel following discussions with leaders from Qatar and Egypt, marking a significant diplomatic effort to broker an extended ceasefire amidst the conflict. Details of Hamas’s counteroffer had not been previously disclosed.
As per the Hamas proposal, the first phase involves the release of Israeli women hostages, males under 19, the elderly, and individuals with medical conditions, in exchange for Palestinian women and children detained in Israeli prisons. Subsequently, the second phase entails the release of remaining male hostages, while the third phase focuses on the exchange of remains. Hamas expects that by the conclusion of the third phase, the parties would have reached an agreement to end the conflict.
Additionally, Hamas has expressed a desire for the release of 1,500 prisoners, with one-third of them selected from a list of Palestinians serving life sentences in Israeli custody. The proposed ceasefire also aims to enhance the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza’s civilian population, who are facing significant challenges including food shortages and essential supply scarcities.
Israel initiated its military offensive in Gaza following an attack by militants from Hamas-ruled Gaza, resulting in casualties and the abduction of hostages on October 7. Gaza’s Health Ministry has reported significant Palestinian casualties during Israel’s military campaign, with many more feared buried under debris.
COMMENTS