Hamas has accepted a new ceasefire proposal for Gaza mediated by Egypt and Qatar. The proposal includes a phased approach to ending the conflict that began in October 2023. In the initial phase, Hamas agreed to release five hostages, including American-Israeli citizen Edan Alexander, in exchange for Israel allowing humanitarian aid into Gaza, implementing a brief pause in fighting, and releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
However, Israel has presented a counter-proposal, coordinated with the United States, seeking the release of 10 to 12 hostages instead. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that military operations would continue until all hostages are freed and Hamas is dismantled.
The conflict has led to significant casualties, with over 50,000 Palestinians reported killed since the Israeli offensive began. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have been ongoing, with the latest proposal aiming to halt hostilities and address humanitarian concerns in the region.
Also read: US proposes new Gaza ceasefire to Hamas via Qatar
