Hamas Studies Gaza Truce Proposal, Rejects Key Provisions

A proposal for a cease-fire between Hamas and Israel is under consideration, with Hamas examining the details. The militant group, led by Ismail Haniyeh, is adamant about its core demands: a permanent cease-fire and the release of Palestinian prisoners, including high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti.

The proposal, involving Egypt, Israel, Qatar, and the U.S., envisions a phased approach but does not guarantee a permanent cease-fire. This has led to ongoing negotiations, with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken set to visit the region to further these efforts.

Haniyeh insists on a complete halt to Israeli offensives in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, while Hamas official Osama Hamdan emphasizes the group’s firm stance against temporary cease-fire solutions.

Despite Israel’s commitment to continue fighting until Hamas is subdued, the proposal does involve pauses in fighting accompanied by hostage releases. Hamas captured approximately 250 hostages during the October 7 attack on southern Israel, and while many have been released, dozens remain captive.

The war has inflicted severe casualties and damage in Gaza, with over 27,000 Palestinians killed and vast areas devastated. Hamdan stresses the importance of the prisoner release issue for all Palestinian factions.

Amidst these talks, tensions persist in the region, with fighting ongoing in Khan Younis and Israeli forces targeting the city as part of their ground offensive. The Israeli military’s actions at the Palestinian Red Crescent’s headquarters in Khan Younis have resulted in casualties, including Red Crescent staff.

As the conflict nears four months, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with the U.N. expressing deep concern for the escalating crisis. The proposal’s next steps hinge on Hamas’s response and the outcome of ongoing negotiations.