Why it matters:
Since October 7, 2023, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has led to over 57,300 Palestinian deaths, drawing international condemnation and accusations of genocide. The proposed ceasefire could halt the bloodshed, facilitate hostage releases, and address the growing humanitarian catastrophe if political hurdles are overcome.
What he’s saying:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Saturday that Hamas has proposed “unacceptable” changes to the ceasefire plan mediated by Qatar and supported by the United States. “The changes that Hamas is seeking to make in the Qatari proposal were conveyed to us last night and are unacceptable to Israel,” read the statement.
Nevertheless, Netanyahu has approved participation in proximity talks to pursue the return of hostages based on the existing draft.
What they’re saying:
Hamas confirmed that its response to the ceasefire proposal was given “in a positive spirit,” while proposing critical amendments. According to regional sources and Israeli media, Hamas seeks binding commitments for long-term ceasefire talks, improved humanitarian aid delivery, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces to positions held before March. These demands aim to ensure that the ceasefire is not a temporary pause but a step toward de-escalation and relief for Gaza’s devastated population.
Key points:
- Since October 7, Israel’s military actions in Gaza have resulted in over 57,400 deaths, prompting widespread international condemnation and accusations of genocide, increasing pressure for a ceasefire.
- While Hamas responded “positively” to the ceasefire proposal, it insists on conditions such as continued talks for a permanent truce, improved humanitarian aid delivery, and Israeli troop withdrawal, demands Israel has so far refused.
Go deeper:
Since October 7, Israel has faced mounting international scrutiny for its extensive bombardment of civilian infrastructure in Gaza, destruction of hospitals, and killing of journalists and aid workers, acts described by legal experts and human rights groups as war crimes and genocide.
ahmad shirzadian
