CAIRO (AP) — Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal from Arab mediators in the ongoing war that began on October 7, 2023, following its incursion into Israel. While Israel has not yet responded to the proposal, it remains committed to defeating Hamas. The new initiative, developed by Egypt and Qatar, features only minor adjustments compared to an earlier plan backed by the United States that Israel accepted.
The ceasefire agreement proposes a 60-day truce, which includes the release of some hostages held by Hamas in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, the deal aims to allow a significant influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza and to initiate talks on a lasting ceasefire. Israeli officials have vowed to continue their military campaign until all hostages are released and Hamas is disarmed. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for Israel's strategy, asserting that Hamas must be "confronted and destroyed" to guarantee the return of the remaining hostages.
The current proposal, the details of which remain undisclosed, includes a 60-day ceasefire during which Israeli forces would retreat to a buffer zone around 800 meters (875 yards) into Gaza. Initially, Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, suggested a larger buffer of 1,500 meters (1,640 yards), which Hamas countered with a request for 600 meters (656 yards), leading to stalled negotiations last month.
Under the ceasefire terms, Hamas would gradually release 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others, while Israel would free approximately 1,700 Palestinians, including about 200 serving life sentences for violent offenses. Since the October 7 attack, which resulted in 251 hostages being taken and the deaths of around 1,200—mostly civilians—only a few hostages remain in Gaza, with estimates suggesting that around 20 are still alive.
In terms of humanitarian aid, Israel would facilitate the entry of 600 trucks daily into Gaza, a significant increase aimed at addressing the territory's descent into famine, a situation that has been exacerbated by the ongoing conflict. Israel had allowed a similar level of aid during an earlier ceasefire this year.
During this temporary ceasefire, negotiations would continue for a more permanent agreement, which would include discussions around further Israeli withdrawal and the release of any remaining hostages.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized that while he would agree to a temporary cessation of hostilities to facilitate hostage exchanges, the war will not conclude until Hamas is thoroughly defeated and disarmed. He has indicated intentions to maintain security control over Gaza and facilitate resettlement of its population in other nations, a proposal that many Palestinians and members of the international community view as forcible expulsion.
With Netanyahu's recent announcements concerning the occupation of densely populated areas, which could lead to increased casualties and further displacement, the ongoing military offensive has already resulted in the deaths of over 62,000 Palestinians, as reported by Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry, which is run by Hamas, has stated that a significant portion of the deceased are women and children, though Israel disputes these figures without providing alternative estimates.
Despite suffering extensive losses over the protracted war, Hamas remains a potent force but is considerably weakened. Most of its leadership has been killed or incapacitated, and its military capabilities have been severely diminished. The Israeli military claims to control at least 75% of Gaza, with many remaining Hamas operatives and civilians now concentrated primarily in Gaza City, refugee camps established after the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, and coastal tent camps.
Hamas, relying on hostages as its last bargaining chips, has stated it will only permit the release of these individuals in exchange for additional Palestinian prisoners, a lasting ceasefire, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, Israel is adamant that any agreement that leaves Hamas armed and intact could pave the way for future attacks.
Amidst this complex tapestry of negotiations, the role of the United States remains crucial. Israel has maintained a low profile in the negotiations, leaving many observers anticipating its response. The Security Cabinet, which holds the authority to approve any potential agreement, typically meets on Thursdays, creating additional speculation regarding the timing and substance of its response to the ceasefire proposal. Trump's influence may prove pivotal in guiding Israel away from relentless military operations while ensuring the safe return of hostages, although he has publicly reiterated his support for Netanyahu's ultimate goals.
