Ceasefire-Hostage Deal Under Discussion for Gaza

Jerusalem
CNN —

Proposal on the Table

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff informed CNN that a deal involving a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza is currently being considered, and he urged Hamas to accept the offer.

Details of the Proposal

The proposal entails releasing half of the living hostages and half of those who have died in exchange for a temporary ceasefire, paving the way for further negotiations aimed at concluding the war.

Negotiation Challenges

Witkoff refrained from indicating the duration of this temporary truce, which remains a significant point of contention in the discussions. He emphasized, “Israel will agree to a temporary ceasefire/hostage deal that leads to substantive negotiations for a permanent solution.”

Hamas’s Response

Despite Witkoff’s calls, Hamas has not yet accepted the proposal. Reports earlier indicated that Hamas had previously agreed to a different deal involving the release of ten hostages for a 70-day truce, which Witkoff dismissed as unacceptable.

Current Military Context

As discussions unfold, Israel’s military has issued evacuation orders for southern Gaza in anticipation of significant military action. The Israeli strategy aims to establish control over much of the territory, warning civilians to move to designated safer areas.

International Reactions

The situation has drawn increasing international scrutiny, with various countries expressing concern over Israel’s military actions. While U.S. officials reaffirm support for Israel, other nations have threatened sanctions against Israeli policies, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the conflict.