Israel has urged Hamas to accept a US-backed ceasefire proposal or face annihilation, following the Palestinian group’s hesitation to commit. The proposal, brokered by a US envoy, includes the release of 10 living and 18 deceased hostages and calls for a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza region.
While Israel has accepted the deal, Hamas stated it is still reviewing the terms, signaling ongoing uncertainty in efforts to end hostilities. Israeli Defense Minister issued a stern warning that rejecting the proposal would have grave consequences.
This development arrives after months of stalled negotiations, during which Gaza has suffered a deepening humanitarian crisis exacerbated by restricted aid and ongoing conflict. Thousands of residents face severe shortages of food and medical supplies.
Separately, the United Nations condemned recent looting at a field hospital in Gaza, where armed individuals seized vital medical equipment and supplies designated for malnourished children. The stolen aid had only arrived in the region one day prior, highlighting growing instability and breakdowns in public order amid worsening conditions.
Meanwhile, US leadership has expressed optimism about progress, with the President indicating a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is nearing completion.
