Hamas Reviewing New Israeli Cease-Fire Proposal Amid Growing Tensions in Gaza
Hamas announced on Saturday that it is currently reviewing a new cease-fire proposal put forth by Israel in an effort to break the deadlock in negotiations between the two parties in the Gaza Strip. The statement comes as tensions rise amidst fears of an Israeli invasion of Rafah, a city in southern Gaza where over a million people have been displaced.
Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas official, confirmed that the group had received a response from Israel regarding a proposal that was initially delivered to Egyptian and Qatari mediators two weeks ago. While details of the Israeli proposal were not disclosed, al-Hayya stated that Hamas would respond after thoroughly examining the terms.
Efforts to reach a cease-fire agreement and secure the release of hostages in Gaza have hit a roadblock in recent weeks due to disagreements over the terms of withdrawal of Israeli forces and the duration of the halt in fighting. Hamas is pushing for a permanent cease-fire, while Israel is open to a temporary pause.
One of the major points of contention is the issue of allowing displaced Palestinians to return to the north. Hamas insists on a mass return, while Israel is seeking to impose restrictions on who can return and under what conditions.
The ongoing impasse has resulted in continued suffering for Palestinians in Gaza, who have endured a relentless bombing campaign by Israel that has claimed the lives of over 34,000 people, according to the Gaza health ministry. The situation has also left Israeli hostages separated from their families, prompting criticism of the government’s handling of the negotiations.
As tensions escalate, there are concerns that Israel may proceed with its planned invasion of Rafah. Israeli officials have hinted at expanding a designated “humanitarian zone” along the coast to accommodate more civilians in the event of a ground offensive.
In response to the escalating situation, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken is expected to visit Israel next week to address the crisis. The United States has urged Israel to exercise restraint and avoid a major military operation in Rafah, citing concerns for the safety of civilians in the area.
While Israeli officials maintain that an invasion of Rafah is necessary to combat Hamas forces, international allies have expressed alarm over the potential humanitarian consequences of such a move, particularly for the vulnerable population living in makeshift tents in the city.
