Hamas has accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal put forward by mediators Egypt and Qatar, its chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya announced on Saturday.
“Two days ago, we received a proposal from the mediators in Egypt and Qatar. We dealt with it positively and accepted it,” Hayya said in a televised speech, adding that he hopes Israel will not undermine the agreement.
The proposal reportedly suggests that Hamas will release five Israeli hostages per week in exchange for a phased ceasefire agreement.
Israel Responds with a Counter-Proposal
The Israeli prime minister’s office confirmed that it had reviewed the proposal and held consultations, but instead of accepting it outright, Israel submitted a counter-proposal. The revised terms were presented in full coordination with the United States.
While Israeli officials did not immediately confirm their stance on the original proposal, security sources previously indicated that Israel had shown “positive indications” toward the deal.
Also Read: Air strike in Gaza, Israel reported to kill Hamas leader and his wife
Three-Phase Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire proposal is reportedly structured in three phases:
Phase 1: Initial halt to fighting, release of some Israeli hostages, and freeing of Palestinian prisoners. (This phase began on January 19 but was later interrupted.)
Phase 2: Further negotiations on the release of remaining hostages and a withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
Phase 3: A broader post-war agreement, which remains a key sticking point.
While Hamas insists that Israel must commit to advancing to Phase 2, Israel has suggested extending Phase 1 for an additional 42 days before moving forward.
Hamas Rejects Calls to Disarm
One major obstacle remains: Hamas has refused to disarm. In response to US and Israeli demands that Hamas cannot have a role in post-war Gaza, Hayya stated that Hamas’ military arsenal is a red line and that it would not lay down arms as long as the Israeli occupation exists.
Ongoing Israeli Strikes in Gaza
Despite ceasefire discussions, Israeli airstrikes and military operations continued on Saturday, with reports of at least 20 Palestinians killed.
Israeli military activity in Rafah – Israeli ground forces entered the Jneina neighborhood, expanding their security zone.
Evacuation orders issued – Tens of thousands of Gazans have been ordered to leave their homes as Israel cites continued rocket attacks on its territory.
Death toll update – More than 50,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, according to Palestinian officials.
Background: Conflict Since October 2023
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led gunmen launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and abducting 251 hostages, according to Israeli sources. In response, Israel launched a full-scale offensive on Gaza, resulting in tens of thousands of casualties and mass displacement.
Did you know that you can join The Theorist on WhatsApp and stay updated? Click here
