Hamas Responds to U.S. Cease-Fire Proposal Amid Ongoing Conflict

Hamas has reacted to a U.S. cease-fire proposal that calls for a 60-day halt to fighting in Gaza and the release of a significant number of hostages. In their recent statement, Hamas neither fully accepted nor outright rejected the offer, indicating it might have additional conditions for consideration. This proposal, part of a broader effort initiated by U.S. officials to stabilize the region, follows an escalation of hostilities after a previous cease-fire ended in mid-March. The latest framework was presented by Steve Witkoff, special envoy for former President Trump, envisioning a temporary cessation of violence paired with negotiations for a more lasting resolution.

Hamas acknowledged that its response was based on extensive consultations, aiming for an enduring cease-fire alongside the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, as well as unhindered access for humanitarian aid to the area's suffering population. The hostage situation remains critical, with around 20 individuals believed to be alive and more than 30 deceased in Gaza, highlighting the urgency of resolving this stalemate in negotiations.