Gaza Ceasefire Proposal: Hamas’ Response and Challenges
Hamas has formally responded to a ceasefire proposal backed by the United States, although U.S. negotiator Steve Witkoff has deemed this response “totally unacceptable.” The militant group from Palestine indicated a willingness to engage, emphasizing the critical need for a permanent ceasefire, which has been a contentious issue for Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu backed Witkoff’s assessment, calling Hamas’s response “unacceptable” and asserting that the group remains entrenched in a rejectionist position. On Friday, Israel issued a stark warning to Hamas: accept the terms of the deal and release hostages held in Gaza, or face devastating consequences.
Details of Hamas’s Proposed Terms
In a statement released on Saturday, Hamas confirmed that it had presented its response to the mediating parties involved in the negotiations. It claimed that their proposal includes the release of 10 living prisoners, alongside the return of 18 deceased individuals, in exchange for a specified number of Palestinian detainees.
A Hamas official conveyed that they offered a “positive response” to Witkoff, while stressing the importance of achieving a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. However, Witkoff reiterated that Hamas’s reaction was not satisfactory and urged the group to accept the proposed framework to facilitate a ceasefire.
Allegations of Bias in Negotiations
Bassem Naim, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, asserted that the group had responded to Witkoff’s proposal in a constructive manner. He criticized the negotiation process, claiming it heavily favors Israel and accused the Israeli government of deviating from previously accepted terms.
Hamas has consistently maintained that any agreement must lead to a lasting resolution of the conflict. Conversely, Israel remains skeptical of this notion, arguing that dismantling Hamas is essential to prevent further hostilities, particularly following the coordinated attack in October 2023 that escalated the ongoing conflict.
Stagnant Negotiations and Hostage Dynamics
Negotiations have stalled since a ceasefire collapsed on March 18, which led to the continuation of Israeli military actions in Gaza. Despite assertions by U.S. President Donald Trump that an agreement was within reach, significant progress remains elusive, with sources indicating a proposed 60-day truce potentially extendable to 70 days.
The proposal allegedly involves an initial exchange of five living hostages and nine deceased bodies in return for a number of Palestinian prisoners within the first week, with additional exchanges planned thereafter. This framework follows the recent tumult surrounding hostage situations and ongoing military operations.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Among the hostages taken during Hamas’s assault on October 7, 2023, 57 are still believed to be in Gaza, with claims that 34 of them are already dead. The Families of Hostages Forum emphasized the need to end the war, noting a collective demand from Israeli society for the return of all hostages, even if it necessitates halting hostilities.
As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza escalates, international criticism of Israel has intensified, with the United Nations raising alarms over the risk of famine among the population. An official from the UN humanitarian agency dubbed Gaza as “the hungriest place on Earth,” highlighting the severe difficulties in receiving aid following an extended blockade.
Ongoing Casualties and Military Operations
The health ministry in Gaza, which is controlled by Hamas, reported on Saturday that over 4,100 individuals have died since Israeli forces resumed their offensive on March 18, contributing to a total war toll nearing 54,400, predominantly among civilians. Hamas’s initial assault on Israel was confirmed to have resulted in 1,218 deaths, adding to the staggering loss of life.
Israeli military operations continue relentlessly, with ongoing bombardments across Gaza, reflecting escalating tensions and the challenging dynamics of the conflict. As both sides navigate this dire situation, the prospects for peace remain uncertain.
