Ceasefire Proposal Under Review Amid Renewed Diplomacy
Hamas confirmed on Monday it is evaluating Israel’s latest Gaza ceasefire proposal, mediated by Egypt and Qatar. However, Palestinian sources cited “significant gaps” between the two sides, casting doubt on near-term progress. The proposal, delivered this week, outlines a 45-day pause in hostilities alongside a hostage-prisoner exchange.
Key Stumbling Blocks Emerge
A Hamas source, speaking anonymously to Xinhua, revealed the group categorically rejected Israel’s demand for disarmament, calling it a “red line.” Meanwhile, Israel insists any agreement must restrict Hamas’s military capabilities. Hamas countered by demanding a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and a comprehensive halt to hostilities before releasing hostages.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As talks continue, Gaza’s civilian population faces escalating hardship. Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza City and Khan Younis have compounded displacement and casualties. Displaced resident Nader Abdul Karim told Xinhua: “We fear becoming part of the rising death toll daily.” UN shelters report overcrowding and dwindling supplies.
Mediators Push for Breakthrough
Egypt and Qatar remain central to negotiations, with Cairo urging Hamas to respond swiftly. While Israel signaled flexibility on some issues, officials reiterated their goal of neutralizing Hamas’s military capacity. A source close to Hamas lamented: “Every failed round of talks means more suffering for our people.”
