TEL AVIV — A new path to de-escalation in Gaza has emerged following an announcement from a Hamas official that the group accepts the latest ceasefire proposal. The confirmation has placed the onus on Israel, which is now facing immense domestic and international pressure to respond to a deal that mediators say is "almost identical" to a previous framework that Israel had accepted.The proposal, brokered by Egypt and Qatar, is reportedly a phased deal that would initiate a 60-day truce in exchange for a significant exchange of prisoners and hostages. Under the terms, a number of Israeli hostages, believed to be alive, would be released in two batches, in exchange for a number of Palestinian prisoners. A key part of the agreement would be to use this temporary halt in fighting to negotiate a more permanent end to the conflict.
The announcement from Hamas comes at a critical juncture. The war has claimed the lives of over 62,000 Palestinians in Gaza, and the humanitarian crisis has deepened, with reports of widespread starvation. In Israel, public pressure has been mounting, with hundreds of thousands of protesters taking to the streets to demand a deal that would secure the release of the remaining hostages.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained a firm public stance, signaling that Israel's position has not changed and that it remains committed to disarming Hamas and securing the return of all hostages. This posture has led to a tense standoff, as many believe that Israel's rejection of the deal would be a missed opportunity, potentially prolonging the war and its devastating toll.
Mediators are now awaiting Israel's official response. The next few days will be crucial in determining whether this diplomatic breakthrough can translate into a meaningful end to the hostilities. The situation remains fluid, but for the first time in months, there is a tangible flicker of hope for a lasting peace.
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