Mediators Await Israeli Response on Proposed Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal

Following Hamas' acceptance of a Gaza ceasefire proposal, Qatar and Egypt are waiting for Israel’s response, as tensions rise amid ongoing military actions and calls from hostages' families for an immediate deal to ensure their loved ones' return, while the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorates.

Arab mediators are standing by for Israel's official response after Hamas expressed support for a new ceasefire proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The plan, introduced by Qatar and Egypt, seeks to prevent a broader Israeli military operation in Gaza. Qatar characterized the ceasefire proposal as "almost identical" to a previous US initiative which suggested a 60-day truce, during which approximately half of the 50 hostages believed to be held in Gaza could be released. The two parties would then engage in negotiations for a more permanent ceasefire, alongside ensuring the return of the remaining hostages.

Israel's government has indicated its intention to reject any partial deal, insisting on a comprehensive agreement that encompasses the release of all hostages. A senior Israeli official reiterated this stance, stating, “Israel's position hasn't changed – release of all hostages and fulfillment of other conditions defined for ending the war.” Additionally, Israeli officials are contemplating a military strategy to occupy Gaza City, with increased airstrikes reported in the area, prompting mass evacuations.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed ambitions for a complete takeover of Gaza, particularly areas now housing the majority of the 2.1 million Palestinians seeking refuge from violence, following the collapse of indirect negotiations with Hamas regarding a ceasefire. In the meantime, a Hamas spokesperson announced that the group had accepted the ceasefire terms without seeking modifications, aiming to finalize arrangements within the initial 60 days.

A Foreign Ministry representative from Qatar revealed that the proposal shares a striking resemblance to the one suggested by US envoy Steve Witkoff, who had previously called for a phased hostage release in exchange for a sizable number of Palestinian prisoners. Although Israel had shown initial favor towards Witkoff's plan, it was ultimately dismissed by Hamas due to concerns surrounding the lack of assurance for a long-term ceasefire.

Despite Netanyahu's declared preference for a complete hostage release, reports suggest he has not completely dismissed the possibility of negotiating a partial deal. The Israeli leadership is currently weighing the implications of Hamas's acceptance of the proposal amidst widespread demonstrations in Tel Aviv demanding an immediate resolution to bring all hostages home.

Simultaneously, the urgency for humanitarian relief in Gaza has increased as over 62,000 people have reportedly already lost their lives since the military campaign began in retaliation for the October 7th attack by Hamas, which killed 1,200 Israelis and resulted in the kidnapping of numerous others. The situation has led to immense strain on Gaza's already crumbling infrastructure, leaving most residents displaced and in desperate need of aid, with warnings from international agencies about the looming crisis of famine.