Hamas Expresses Readiness to Discuss Gaza Ceasefire After US Initiative
Hamas has indicated a willingness to negotiate a ceasefire in Gaza after receiving a peace proposal from the United States. This development marks a significant shift amid the ongoing conflict that has lasted nearly 21 months, underscoring the potential for renewed diplomatic efforts.
US Proposal Offers 60-Day Pause in Hostilities
US President announced a final proposal aiming to establish a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The plan also includes provisions for hostage releases and sets the stage for broader negotiations to end the conflict. President Trump expressed hopes for swift responses from both sides, anticipating progress within days.
Hamas Responds Positively, Open to Negotiations
On its official platform, Hamas revealed it had thoroughly consulted internally and engaged with Palestinian factions before responding. They described their reply as coming in "a positive spirit" and affirmed their seriousness in entering implementation talks immediately.
Still, some hurdles remain. A representative from a Hamas-allied Palestinian militant group highlighted ongoing concerns regarding humanitarian aid access, the operational status of the Rafah crossing into Egypt, and clarity on the timeline for an Israeli troop withdrawal.
Israeli and US Stance Remains Cautious
Although Israel has reportedly received Hamas’ reply, Israeli Prime Minister remains publicly silent on the ceasefire offer. His longstanding stance emphasizes disarming Hamas—a demand the group so far refuses to entertain. Meanwhile, President Trump remains optimistic about a potential agreement, mentioning a possible deal could materialize as soon as next week.
Egyptian authorities, mediating alongside Qatar, noted positive signs within Hamas’ response but underscored the need to address several outstanding demands before finalizing an accord.
Conflict Continues Amid Diplomacy
Recent Strikes and Casualties Highlight Urgency
Despite diplomatic advances, the violence rages on. In the last 24 hours, Israeli attacks resulted in the deaths of at least 138 Palestinians in Gaza, including a recent airstrike targeting a tent camp in Khan Younis housing displaced civilians. The Israeli military reported neutralizing militants and dismantling Hamas positions while striking numerous sites in Gaza.
Grieving families continue to bear the brunt of this conflict. Thirteen-year-old Mayar Al Farr mourned her brother, killed while seeking essential supplies. "There should have been a ceasefire long ago," she lamented through tears.
Hostage Families Demand Swift Action
Meanwhile, in Tel Aviv, families of hostages seized by Hamas held a poignant demonstration outside the US Embassy. The event featured a symbolic Sabbath dinner table with 50 empty chairs representing those still held captive in Gaza. Their banners echoed a simple yet powerful message urging an immediate hostage deal.
Among the voices was Gideon Rosenberg, who wore a shirt bearing the image of one of the hostages abducted at a music festival in October 2023. Official sources indicate the ceasefire proposal includes provisions for releasing 10 hostages and returning the bodies of 18 others during the ceasefire period.
Calls for a Comprehensive Agreement Grow Louder
Parents of hostages appealed to Israeli leadership, urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to push for a lasting agreement that secures the safe return of all captives. The war’s devastating toll grows by the day, with Gaza’s population of over two million displaced and facing severe shortages amid sustained military operations.
Tragically, more than 57,000 Palestinians, largely civilians, have lost their lives during nearly two years of fighting, highlighting the critical need for a durable ceasefire and comprehensive peace talks.
