Netanyahu Expresses Conditional Support for U.S.-Brokered Ceasefire Proposal; Hamas Reviews Terms

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated provisional approval of a ceasefire and hostage exchange proposal formulated by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff. This proposal, aiming to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza, outlines a 60-day cessation of hostilities during which Hamas would release 10 living Israeli hostages and return the remains of 18 individuals. In exchange, Israel would release 125 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, 1,111 detainees apprehended since the onset of the conflict on October 7, 2023, and the remains of 180 Palestinians currently held by Israel. 

While the Prime Minister has conveyed a willingness to proceed with the proposal, he has emphasized that the overarching objective remains the dismantling of Hamas’s military capabilities. This stance reflects a commitment to ensuring the long-term security of Israeli citizens and the restoration of peace in the region.

Hamas, on its part, has acknowledged receipt of the proposal and is reportedly deliberating its terms. A senior Hamas official, Bassem Naim, has expressed reservations, stating that the proposal does not adequately address the demands of the Palestinian people and may perpetuate existing hardships. 

The proposal also includes provisions for the Israel Defense Forces to withdraw from certain areas within Gaza, with specific parameters to be determined through ongoing negotiations. These discussions are anticipated to continue over the coming days, as both parties assess the implications of the proposed terms.

Domestically, the proposal has elicited a range of responses within Israel. Some right-wing ministers and families of hostages have voiced opposition, arguing that increased pressure on Hamas could yield more favorable outcomes.Conversely, others advocate for the proposal as a means to secure the release of hostages and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.