Hamas has put forward a ceasefire offer aimed at achieving a four-and-a-half-month truce, involving the gradual release of hostages in three phases, with the ultimate goal of ending the conflict. This proposal comes in response to a plan outlined by mediators from Qatar and Egypt, with backing from the United States and Israel.
A source familiar with the negotiations revealed to Reuters that Hamas’ counteroffer does not insist on an immediate permanent ceasefire but emphasizes reaching a resolution to the conflict during the truce period before the final release of hostages.
Outlined in a draft document obtained by Reuters, Hamas’ proposal outlines three distinct phases, each spanning 45 days.
The first phase of 45 days would prioritize the release of Israeli female hostages, males under 19, as well as elderly and sick individuals, in exchange for Palestinian female and underage security prisoners held in Israeli custody. Concurrently, Israel would commence withdrawing its troops from populated areas.
The commencement of the second phase hinges on the conclusion of indirect negotiations regarding the conditions necessary to cease mutual military operations and restore complete calm.
Phase two would entail the release of the remaining male hostages and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Additionally, arrangements would be made for the exchange of bodies and remains.
By the conclusion of the third phase, Hamas expects both sides to have reached an agreement to end the conflict.
In an addendum to the proposal, Hamas specifies its desire for the release of 1,500 prisoners from Israeli jails, with a third of them to be chosen from a list of Palestinians serving life sentences.
The proposed truce also includes provisions to enhance the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, ensuring a minimum of 500 trucks per day.
Reports from the Lebanese outlet al-Akhbar, linked to the Hezbollah terror group, suggest additional details provided by Hamas, notably outlining the initial phase’s specifics. This includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas and the establishment of tent encampments by the United Nations, alongside a cessation of all aerial activities throughout the duration of this period.
Moreover, Hamas stipulates that released prisoners should include Arab Israelis, and Gaza residents should enjoy freedom of movement, including for medical purposes through Rafah to Egypt. The plan encompasses various reconstruction efforts, including the rebuilding of hospitals, temporary housing, and the restoration of vital infrastructure such as water, electricity, and communication networks.
The proposed framework also addresses the status of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, advocating for a return to its pre-2002 conditions, although the specific event referenced from that year remains unclear.
Significantly, Russia and Turkey are mentioned as additional guarantors alongside Egypt, Qatar, and the UN.
The fate of 132 hostages abducted by Hamas on October 7 remains uncertain, with efforts ongoing to secure their release. Additionally, Hamas holds the bodies of fallen IDF soldiers and two Israeli civilians, complicating negotiations.
While Hamas’s framework includes provisions for a permanent ceasefire, this is a contentious point for Israel, which remains steadfast in its commitment to neutralize the terror group.
Despite differing opinions, Qatar’s Prime Minister expresses optimism following Hamas’s response, while US President Biden acknowledges ongoing negotiations.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office confirms receipt of Hamas’s response through Qatari intermediaries and indicates a review of the proposal is underway.
Hamas took over a week to respond to the framework proposal, which originated in Paris and was conveyed by Qatar. While Israel reportedly approved the proposal, it remains subject to negotiation, particularly concerning issues like the duration of the truce and the release of Palestinian prisoners.
{Matzav.com Israel}
Their recent activities in Khan Younis proves that this would be disastrous and preposterous. They will undoubtedly resurface with the help of their sponsors: Qatar and Iran.
So hamas wants keep using innocent Israeli citizens as bargaining chips to have their murderous criminals released (over and over again), and there are ppl out there who support this deal?!?!?!?!
Yup. Democrat Bob Casey is okay with this.
They’re out of their mind. Hamas y”sh calling the shots??? They enter a country, kill, rape, behead etc and the enemy gets to call the shots for a deal??? Would any other country allow this??