Hamas submitted its latest ceasefire proposal to international mediators in Cairo, offering cautious hope of an early end to months-long violence in Gaza and southern Israel. Regional and global powers have intensified diplomatic efforts in an attempt to bring an end to the escalation in violence between Gazans and Israelis.
11.05 am GMT – Proposal submitted to Egyptian Mediators.
According to senior Egyptian officials, Hamas officials presented their latest proposal during closed-door talks in Cairo Thursday morning. This revised draft outlined conditions for a phased ceasefire agreement including an initial halt in hostilities, prisoner exchanges, and loosening humanitarian blockades.
Hamas spokesperson confirmed their position had been modified due to recent events and international feedback, but insisted any final agreement must include guarantees for long-term relief for Gaza’s civilian population.
Israel Discussing Proposal with Security Cabinet at 11:40 am GMT.
Israeli Prime Minister’s Office issued a brief statement, acknowledging receipt of the revised plan through intermediaries, and noting that Israeli security cabinet would convene later that afternoon for further discussion of its contents.
“Israel is carefully considering all diplomatic options while continuing to ensure the safety of Israeli citizens,” according to its statement.
Israeli officials have yet to publicly address the proposal’s contents, though sources indicate key sticking points remain — including Hamas’ demand that all Israeli forces withdraw from certain areas and lift all restrictions placed upon Gaza by Israel.
U.S. and Qatar Welcome Progress Report
Washington and Doha, which have both participated in indirect negotiations, expressed cautious optimism after receiving the new proposal. A spokesperson from the U.S. State Department described it as an important step forward, adding that Washington remains committed to supporting any agreement which brings about an effective end to fighting.
Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its role as mediator between both parties and commended Egypt’s leadership for hosting these talks.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsening in Gaza –
As diplomatic channels remain engaged, Gaza’s humanitarian situation remains dire. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), 75% or more of its population now requires food, water, or medical aid immediately; infrastructure damage has rendered hospitals inoperable while thousands remain displaced from their homes.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres issued fresh appeals for an immediate cessation of hostilities and unhindered access for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, and said “a ceasefire is more than simply urgent, it’s morally imperative”.
1:40 PM GMT – No Confirmation of Ceasefire Yet
Although progress is being made, no definitive ceasefire agreement has yet been confirmed. Both sides continue to negotiate privately while mediators attempt to develop an enforcement framework with verification and monitoring mechanisms.
Observers warn that failure to find common ground could escalate tensions even further. “We are at a critical juncture,” stated Middle East analyst Rami Khoury. If this revised proposal is rejected, this could close diplomatic channels for weeks and lead to further conflicts in the Middle East.