Hamas Accepts Gaza Ceasefire Proposal from Egypt and Qatar
Hamas Agrees to Ceasefire Proposal
Hamas has agreed to a Gaza ceasefire proposal it received two days ago from mediators Egypt and Qatar, according to Khalil al-Hayya, the Palestinian group’s chief. In a televised speech, Hayya announced that Hamas had dealt with the proposal positively and accepted it.
Conditions for Ceasefire
Hayya expressed hope that the Israeli occupation would not undermine the ceasefire proposal. As the leader of the Hamas negotiating team in indirect talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in the Hamas-Israel war in Gaza, which erupted in October 2023, Hayya emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire.
Transitional Phase and Hostage Release
Security sources told Reuters on Thursday that Egypt had received positive indications from Israel over a new ceasefire proposal that would include a transitional phase. The proposal suggests that Hamas release five of the Israeli hostages it is holding each week, the sources said.
Israeli Response
The Israeli prime minister’s office said it had held a series of consultations according to the proposal that was received from the mediators, and that Israel had conveyed to the mediators a counter-proposal in full coordination with the United States. When asked if Israel had also agreed to the ceasefire proposal, the prime minister’s office did not immediately respond.
Counter-Proposal from Israel
It is unclear what Israel’s counter-proposal entails, but it is likely to be a key factor in determining the success of the ceasefire agreement. The Israeli government’s response to the proposal will be closely watched, as it could have significant implications for the conflict in Gaza.
Conclusion
The acceptance of the ceasefire proposal by Hamas is a significant development in the conflict, and could potentially bring an end to the violence in Gaza. However, the success of the agreement will depend on the willingness of both parties to compromise and work towards a peaceful resolution. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation, and will be watching for any signs of progress or potential setbacks.
FAQs
- What is the Gaza ceasefire proposal?
The Gaza ceasefire proposal is a plan to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza, which erupted in October 2023. The proposal was put forward by mediators Egypt and Qatar, and has been accepted by Hamas. - What are the conditions of the ceasefire proposal?
The conditions of the ceasefire proposal include a transitional phase, during which Hamas will release five of the Israeli hostages it is holding each week. - Has Israel agreed to the ceasefire proposal?
Israel has not yet publicly responded to the ceasefire proposal, but has said that it will hold consultations with the mediators. It is unclear what Israel’s response will be.