Hamas has accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar, according to the group's chief negotiator, Khalil al-Hayya. "Two days ago, we received a proposal from the mediators in Egypt and Qatar. We dealt with it positively and accepted it," he said in a televised statement.
The ceasefire negotiations continue as Israel reviews the proposal. Egyptian security sources indicated that Israel had responded positively, suggesting a transitional phase in the ceasefire agreement. The proposal includes Hamas releasing five Israeli hostages per week.
Israel’s Prime Minister's Office confirmed discussions on the proposal and submitted a counter-offer in coordination with the United States. However, it did not immediately confirm acceptance of the ceasefire.
The ceasefire framework consists of three phases. The first phase, which began on January 19, included a temporary halt in fighting, the exchange of some hostages and prisoners, and humanitarian efforts. The second phase aims to secure the release of all remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Hamas insists that the second phase must be implemented, while Israel has suggested an extension of the first phase instead.
Hamas has rejected demands to disarm, calling it a "red line," while Israel and the U.S. maintain that Hamas must not play a role in post-war Gaza governance.
Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continue in the Rafah area, citing security concerns. Israel resumed airstrikes and ground operations on March 18, issuing new evacuation orders. According to Palestinian officials, over 50,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict since October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.
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