Hamas has accepted a new Egyptian proposal to release five hostages, including American-Israeli Edan Alexander, in exchange for a renewed ceasefire.
The proposal is similar to one presented by US special envoy Steve Witkoff several weeks ago. In return for the hostages’ release, Hamas expects Israel to return to phase one ceasefire conditions, allowing humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and agreeing to negotiate the second phase of the ceasefire.
Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya stated that the militant group engaged with the proposal “positively” before agreeing to it. Al-Hayya emphasized that Hamas has “fully abided” by the terms of the first ceasefire deal and hopes Israel “does not obstruct this proposal.”
The Israeli Prime Minister’s office announced that Israel has responded to the Egyptian offer with a counter-proposal. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a series of consultations before transferring Israel’s counter-proposal to the mediators, in coordination with the United States.
The development comes after Israel renewed attacks in Gaza and imposed a complete blockade of humanitarian aid entering the enclave earlier this month. Israel has warned that its forces will maintain a permanent presence in parts of Gaza until the release of the remaining 24 hostages believed to be alive.
READ ALSO: Israeli strike kills Hamas leader Salah al-Bardaweel
The conflict has resulted in devastating losses for Palestinians in Gaza. Health authorities report that at least 50,277 Palestinians have been killed and another 114,095 injured since Israel’s military offensive began on October 7, 2023.
The international community has been pushing for a ceasefire and the release of hostages. The Egyptian proposal is seen as a positive step towards resolving the conflict.
However, the success of the proposal depends on Israel’s response. The Israeli counter-proposal may include conditions that Hamas is unwilling to accept, potentially hindering the deal.
As the situation remains fragile, the international community continues to urge both parties to work towards a peaceful resolution. The release of hostages and the renewal of the ceasefire would be a significant step towards alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Reported by CNN
