Discrepancies Emerge in Gaza Ceasefire Claims; US Expresses Hopefulness

Recent developments indicate contradictory reports regarding the ceasefire in Gaza. The United States has expressed optimism about the potential for reaching a new agreement. However, Israeli media outlets have suggested that the deal in question involves a 60-day ceasefire rather than establishing a permanent peace.

US publication Axios reported on Thursday that the White House is hopeful a fresh proposal from Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, representing Trump, might lead to an imminent ceasefire agreement.

A source involved in the negotiations told Axios that a deal could be reached within days if both sides are willing to make slight concessions.

Hamas announced last night that it has secured an agreement with Witkoff outlining a general framework for a lasting ceasefire. The deal includes the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the unobstructed delivery of humanitarian aid.

According to a report by Axios, Witkoff was seen alongside Trump in the Oval Office, where he announced the preparation of “a new term sheet” awaiting Trump’s approval.

Witkoff expressed optimism about achieving both a temporary ceasefire and a long-term peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Prospects of a 60-day ceasefire discussed.

According to reports from Hebrew media outlets, Israeli representatives are now indicating that the latest American proposal for a ceasefire and agreement with Hamas involves the release of 10 Israeli hostages, as opposed to the nine initially reported.

According to reports from the pan-Arab channel Al Ghad, a proposal has been presented to both Hamas and ‘Israel’. This plan outlines a 60-day ceasefire period, during which a total of 10 live captives and 18 bodies of hostages would be released. The arrangement specifies that half of these releases would occur on the first day of the ceasefire, with the remaining to follow on the seventh day.

Reports indicate that, in exchange, Israel plans to release 125 Palestinian prisoners convicted of terrorism and serving life sentences. Additionally, 1,111 Gazans detained since the conflict commenced on October 7, 2023, and the remains of 180 Palestinians currently held by Israeli authorities are expected to be freed.

Reports indicate that the agreement entails the delivery of humanitarian aid during the ceasefire and a retreat of Israeli forces to pre-determined positions.

Furthermore, the proposal includes a U.S. assurance to maintain negotiations during the ceasefire period until a lasting truce is established, Al Ghad reports. However, Hebrew media highlight that it allows Israel the option to recommence hostilities should these discussions collapse.