 "Hamas okays Egyptian ceasefire proposal, agrees to release five hostages but Israel files counter-proposal")
Palestinian militant group Hamas has reportedly agreed to a new Egyptian proposal to release five hostages, including the American-Israeli Edan Alexander, in exchange for a renewed ceasefire. According to a CNN report, the Egyptian proposal is similar to the one presented by US special envoy Steve Witkoff weeks ago.
Egyptian officials also confirmed this development to the Qatari New Arab news outlet. The officials said the US and Qatar are also involved in the proposal.
“The ball is now in the Israeli government and Americans’ court,” the officials were quoted as saying.
Hamas is in support of resuming the ceasefire over the Eid al-Fitr holiday at the end of Ramadan.
Hamas’ expectations
Hamas is hoping to see a return to phase 1 ceasefire conditions in exchange for the release of five hostages, CNN reports.
Among the major conditions could be the resumption of humanitarian aid, as well as an agreement to negotiate the second phase of the ceasefire, the source told CNN.
Israel’s response
However, the Israeli side is not amused by the proposal and they have filed a counter-proposal.
A statement by the Israeli PMO said its counter-proposal was filed in full consultation with the US.
“Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a series of consultations yesterday, following a proposal received from the mediators. In recent hours, Israel transferred its counter proposal to the mediators, in full coordination with the United States,” said the PMO.
Earlier this month, Israel renewed attacks in Gaza and imposed a complete blockade on humanitarian aid entering the enclave. It warned that its forces would maintain a permanent presence in parts of Gaza until the release of the remaining 24 hostages, who are believed to be still alive.
Impact Shorts
More ShortsAccording to Gaza health authorities, at least 50,277 Palestinians have been killed and 114,095 injured since Israel’s military offensive began in response to Hamas-led terror attacks on October 7, 2023.
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