Hamas Evaluates Revised US Ceasefire Proposal
Hamas is anticipated to free captives and suspend armed actions under the agreement. However, the deal lacks enforceable measures to prevent potential future Israeli military actions and offers no guarantees concerning the political rights of Palestinians.
Hamas announced on Thursday that it has received a new ceasefire proposal for the Gaza Strip, facilitated by mediators. The plan was submitted by Steve Witkoff, envoy to the Middle East under the administration of Trump.
The Palestinian resistance announced that it will carefully evaluate the proposal, emphasizing its dedication to an agreement that protects “the interests of the Palestinian people, provides relief, and ensures a lasting ceasefire in the Strip.”
The announcement follows closely on the heels of Hamas’s formal acceptance of a ceasefire deal’s general framework, mediated by Witkoff. The agreement entails a permanent cessation of hostilities, a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, unimpeded humanitarian aid, and the establishment of a professional committee to oversee governance in the Gaza Strip.
The revised initiative reportedly expands upon the existing framework with additional contributions from Palestinian-American mediator Bishara Bahbah. Sources familiar with the document indicate that it proposes a 70-day ceasefire—a middle ground between Hamas’s initial 90-day suggestion and the original 60-day plan. During this period, the release of 10 Israeli captives, comprising five living individuals and five deceased, is anticipated in two separate groups. In reciprocation, a designated number of Palestinian detainees would be released, overseen by international mediators.
Israeli news outlets have reported that an official announced the country’s leadership has agreed to Witkoff’s proposal. This development indicates a potential breakthrough and a rare moment of consensus following several months of unsuccessful talks.
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Witkoff, in a statement on Wednesday, characterized the most recent draft as a “comprehensive solution” to the Gaza conflict. He emphasized Washington’s dedication to achieving a “long-term resolution to the conflict in the Middle East” and conveyed hope for a potential breakthrough. Trump shared this optimism, asserting that the United States is “progressing well on Gaza” and encouraged all parties to “endorse the document presented by Witkoff.”
The proposal outlines the initiation of formal negotiations to commence during the ceasefire, with the objective of achieving a durable political resolution. These discussions would encompass stipulations including a commitment from Hamas to refrain from future threats to Israeli security and the formation of a technocratic government to oversee post-war reconstruction efforts.
Critics contend that the proposal reflects a recurring approach observed under the current administration, characterized by a gradual process that diminishes Hamas’s influence without providing significant assurances for Palestinian sovereignty or enduring security.
Hamas is anticipated to free captives and pause its armed resistance; however, the agreement lacks enforceable measures to deter potential future Israeli military actions and fails to provide guarantees concerning the political rights of Palestinians.
