Hamas Signals Approval for Gaza Ceasefire Proposal
Path Opens for Negotiations Aimed at Ending Conflict with Israel
In a significant development that could halt months of escalating conflict, Hamas has responded positively to a proposed 60-day ceasefire with Israel in Gaza. This move may pave the way for direct negotiations between the involved parties seeking to end the ongoing war.
Hamas Accepts Framework
Hamas announced it “submitted a positive response to the mediators, and the movement is fully prepared to immediately enter into a round of negotiations regarding the mechanism for implementing this framework,”
according to a statement from the group.
An Israeli source indicated earlier that they anticipated a favorable response from Hamas, even with minor revisions to the proposal’s wording, changes not expected to impede the ceasefire efforts.
**Bishara Bahbah**, a Palestinian-American involved in discussions with Hamas, conveyed optimism on Facebook, stating, “We are now much closer to ending this cursed war.”
He added that Hamas had introduced “amendments it deemed necessary,”
but believed they “will not prevent reaching a ceasefire agreement within the coming week, God willing.”
Details of the Ceasefire Proposal
The framework suggests that Hamas would release eight living hostages on the first day in exchange for an agreed-upon number of Palestinian prisoners, followed by an Israeli withdrawal from areas in northern Gaza. Further negotiations would then take place, focusing on establishing a permanent ceasefire.
According to the proposal, the release of the hostages is slated to occur privately, without public ceremonies or fanfare. The remaining hostages would be freed on four separate dates outlined in the agreement.
US Role and Commitments
The recent proposal incorporates stronger assurances regarding the US commitment to maintaining Israel’s engagement in negotiations aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire agreement, either during or potentially after the initial 60-day truce.
Former US President **Donald Trump** urged Hamas to accept the deal, posting on Truth Social, “I hope, for the good of the Middle East, that Hamas takes this Deal, because it will not get better – IT WILL ONLY GET WORSE,”
while thanking Qatar and Egypt for their roles.
Moreover, it commits Israel to facilitating a surge in humanitarian aid to Gaza via recognized channels, rather than through the controversial Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation.
Negotiations and Key Issues
It is anticipated that Israel and Hamas will soon engage in proximity talks. A critical point of contention will be establishing a timeline for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza during the ceasefire, according to a source.
Since the start of the conflict, humanitarian organizations have struggled to provide aid; the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs reports that only 33% of planned aid missions to northern Gaza were facilitated in May 2024 alone, highlighting the dire need for improved access OCHA, June 2024.
Netanyahu’s Position
**Benjamin Netanyahu** is scheduled to meet **Trump** in Washington this weekend. Prior to his trip, **Netanyahu** will convene his full cabinet to discuss the proposal.
Despite opposition from right-wing members of the Israeli government, other political factions have indicated their support for a ceasefire, potentially bolstering its chances of success.
