Trump Announces Israel’s Acceptance of Ceasefire Proposal; Hamas Yet to Respond

As Israel’s attacks on the Gaza Strip continue, President Trump revealed on Tuesday evening that Israel has accepted a new ceasefire proposal. Hamas is expected to issue its official response by Friday evening. Reports from various sources suggest that the proposal may satisfy Hamas, but the group has not yet confirmed its position.

Key Points of the Proposal:
The proposal outlines a five-phase hostage exchange and a 60-day ceasefire. If the agreement is reached, Hamas will release 10 hostages and 18 bodies over two months in five stages. In return, Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails will be released. Notably, Hamas will not hold any ceremonies during the release of the hostages.

Of the 251 Israelis kidnapped on October 7, 2023, 49 remain in Hamas’ custody. According to the Israeli military, 27 of these hostages are no longer alive.

Differences from the Witkoff Plan:
The new proposal differs significantly from the Witkoff Plan presented by the US in May, which called for the release of hostages in two stages within the first week of the ceasefire.

Three Key Issues in the Proposal:

1. Israeli Withdrawal from Gaza:
   Israeli forces will not fully withdraw from Gaza during the 60-day truce. Instead, they will return to their positions before the March 2 ceasefire collapse and maintain their positions along the Philadelphi Corridor.
2. Humanitarian Aid:
   The proposal emphasizes the resumption of humanitarian aid distribution through the United Nations (UN). Large quantities of aid will be delivered to Gaza without interruption.
3. No Clear Guarantee of War’s End:
   The proposal does not explicitly guarantee an end to the war but offers strong assurances. Negotiations for a permanent ceasefire will take place during the 60-day period. If no agreement is reached, talks will continue, with mediators responsible for ensuring the process moves forward under certain conditions.

Hamas’ Potential Response:
According to a Qatari official speaking to Haaretz, the new proposal is likely to satisfy Hamas’ external leadership. However, it remains unclear whether Hamas leaders in Gaza will accept the proposal without a clear guarantee of ending the war.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his latest speech, reiterated his commitment to destroying Hamas, casting further doubt on the prospects of a lasting ceasefire.