Hamas Accepts Ceasefire Deal
Hamas has agreed to a new Gaza ceasefire and hostage release proposal, according to sources speaking to the BBC. The deal, mediated by Egypt and Qatar and based on a framework from US envoy Steve Witkoff, aims to pause the war and begin negotiations for a permanent solution.
Key Points of the Proposal
- 60-day truce between Hamas and Israel.
- Hostage release: About 25 hostages to be freed in two phases.
- Negotiations during the truce for a long-term ceasefire.
Israel’s Reaction Still Unclear
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that Israel will only agree to a deal if all hostages are released at once.
- Netanyahu hinted that Hamas is under pressure but did not give a clear answer about the new proposal.
- The Israeli military says the war is at a “turning point” as strikes intensify in Gaza City.
Fighting Escalates in Gaza
While ceasefire talks continue, fighting on the ground is escalating.
- Israeli tanks made a surprise advance into the Sabra neighborhood in Gaza City.
- Air and artillery strikes supported the operation.
- Schools and a UN clinic sheltering displaced families were surrounded.
- Thousands of civilians have been forced to flee again.
The Israeli cabinet is expected to approve a plan to fully occupy Gaza City.
Hamas Delegation in Cairo
A Hamas delegation, led by chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, has been in Cairo for talks.
- Hamas submitted a written acceptance of the proposal without changes.
- Qatar’s Prime Minister and Egypt’s Foreign Minister both called for urgent progress.
- Mediators say there is a “window of opportunity” for peace.
Public Pressure in Israel and Gaza
In Israel
- Mass protests in Tel Aviv saw hundreds of thousands demanding a deal to bring hostages home.
- Families fear further Israeli offensives could put hostages in danger.
- Netanyahu accused protesters of “strengthening Hamas.”
In Gaza
- Civilians protested, calling for an immediate end to the war.
- One woman told the BBC: “Our only demand is peace and safety for our children.”
International Reactions
- US President Donald Trump said hostages will only return once Hamas is “destroyed.”
- Israel insists the war will only end when:
- All hostages are released.
- Hamas disarms.
- Gaza is demilitarized and under Israeli control.
- Hamas demands:
- Exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
- Full Israeli withdrawal.
- Creation of an independent Palestinian state.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
- Death toll: More than 62,000 Palestinians killed (Hamas-run health ministry).
- Displacement: 90% of the population forced to move multiple times.
- Homes destroyed: Vast majority of houses damaged or flattened.
- Collapse of services: Hospitals, water, and sanitation systems no longer functioning.
- Famine warnings: UN experts say Gaza faces the “worst-case scenario of famine.”
- Deaths from hunger: At least 263 people, including children, have died from malnutrition.
Background of the War
The war began after the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, which killed about 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken. Israel launched a large-scale military campaign in Gaza in response.
References
- BBC News (David Gritten & Rushdi Abualouf)
- Statements from Hamas, Israeli officials, Egypt, Qatar, and the United States
- Gaza Health Ministry reports
- UN humanitarian updates