Israel has agreed to a brand new US-backed proposal for a short lived ceasefire with Hamas, the White Home confirmed on Thursday, in what might mark a significant step towards halting the devastating battle in Gaza and securing the discharge of extra hostages.White Home press secretary Karoline Leavitt informed reporters that Israel has “backed and supported” the plan, which got here after latest efforts by US President Donald Trump’s particular envoy, Steve Witkoff.Witkoff had earlier expressed cautious optimism about mediating a breakthrough deal, which might pause hostilities and pave the best way for the return of hostages captured.In an announcement, Hamas mentioned it had acquired the proposal and was “reviewing it responsibly to serve the pursuits of our folks, present them aid, and obtain a everlasting ceasefire within the Gaza Strip.”Beforehand, Hamas had mentioned it reached a “common framework” settlement with the US envoy, outlining steps towards a long-lasting ceasefire. The framework included a whole Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, elevated humanitarian help, and a handover of governance from Hamas to a politically impartial Palestinian committee.Greater than 54,000 Palestinians, largely ladies and kids, have been killed since Israel resumed its navy offensive in March, based on Gaza well being officers. The October 7 assault by Hamas, which triggered the battle, left 1,200 Israelis lifeless and 251 taken hostage.What does the brand new proposal supply?Though the complete particulars of the proposal haven’t been made public, sources near the negotiations say that the ceasefire would see Israeli troops pull again to earlier positions and permit for the discharge of 10 residing hostages and a number of other our bodies in trade for over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners, together with these 100 serving lengthy sentences on conviction of the lethal assaults. It additionally requires a 60-day halt in combating. Notably, the plan consists of the peace of mind that Israel won’t resume navy operations as soon as the hostages are freed.Tons of of help vans would even be allowed into Gaza every day through the truce, an important lifeline for a inhabitants struggling below a months-long blockade that has introduced many to the brink of famine.What does Israel need?Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lengthy maintained that the battle won’t finish till all hostages are freed and Hamas is both dismantled or pressured into exile. He additionally declared that Israel will retain long-term management over Gaza and promote what he describes because the voluntary emigration of a big portion of its inhabitants.Nonetheless, plans to resettle Gaza’s inhabitants have been firmly rejected by Palestinians and far of the worldwide neighborhood, with consultants warning that such a transfer would probably breach worldwide legislation.What does Hamas need?Hamas has made clear it can launch the remaining hostages, its sole leverage, solely in trade for the discharge of extra Palestinian prisoners, a everlasting ceasefire, and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The group has additionally signalled its willingness to relinquish management to a politically impartial Palestinian committee that might lead reconstruction efforts.Hamas continues to be holding 58 hostages, of which solely a 3rd are believed to be residing. Nonetheless, Because the battle lingers on, their lives proceed to be at risk.
