Middle East Hamas accepts proposal for Gaza ceasefire, release of hostages

[CharlieH]

 

Deal would include 60-day halt to violence and exchange of half of living Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners

 

 

Hamas Agrees to Gaza Ceasefire Proposal Amid Intense Diplomacy

In a significant development, Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal that includes the release of half of the remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza. This comes amidst reports from Gaza health officials that 62,000 Palestinians have died in the ongoing 22-month conflict.

 

The ceasefire proposal emerged after negotiations with Egyptian and Qatari officials in Cairo. It follows massive protests in Israel, where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced criticism for his handling of the war and failure to secure a hostage release. Netanyahu labeled the protests as detrimental, arguing they bolster Hamas's position in negotiations.

 

Under the agreed terms, there will be a 60-day suspension of military operations, potentially paving the way for a comprehensive resolution. During this period, a swap of Palestinian prisoners for half of the Israeli hostages in Gaza is expected.

 

Egypt has been a key mediator in the talks between Hamas and Israel, especially as Israel threatens a significant military offensive to capture Gaza City, a move that could displace thousands of Palestinians. While the ceasefire proposal awaits presentation to Israel, Netanyahu insists on full hostage releases, disarmament of Hamas, and Gaza's demilitarization before ending the war.

 

The latest negotiations, influenced by a US-proposed framework, seem to address some of Israel's objections. However, Netanyahu faces growing internal criticism from senior security officials who warn that new offensives could endanger hostages' lives.

 

The plan to capture Gaza City has stirred international concern over the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, where blockades have led to accusations of genocide. As negotiations continue in Egypt, involving significant figures like the Qatari Prime Minister and Egypt's intelligence chief, pressure mounts for an effective resolution.

 

While US President Donald Trump backed Netanyahu's approach against Hamas, mass protests in Israel indicate increasing discontent with the ongoing war and missed opportunities for securing a hostage deal. Over 400,000 people participated in these protests, reflecting growing fatigue with the conflict.

 

Netanyahu accused protesters of inadvertently aiding Hamas, stating, “Those advocating for the war's end without Hamas's defeat only strengthen Hamas and delay hostages' release.” Protesters carried signs referencing the death of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a dual US-Israeli citizen killed last October alongside other hostages during an Israeli operation.

 

In response, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticized Netanyahu, emphasizing hostages' prolonged suffering under his leadership. Yair Golan, an opposition figure, accused Netanyahu of empowering Hamas through previous financial support and failing to eliminate its leaders before the deadly October 7 attack.

 

Amid the potential for an Israeli ground assault, thousands of Palestinians have fled heavy bombardments in eastern Gaza City, seeking refuge in safer areas. While tensions remain high, the ceasefire proposal offers a glimmer of hope. However, the path to long-lasting peace is fraught with complexities.

 

The ceasefire agreement, if successful, could pivot the region towards stability, but it requires careful navigation of political landscapes and international diplomacy. The current atmosphere is charged, with all eyes on whether this development can transition from a temporary lull into enduring peace.

 

Israel and Hamas remain under significant scrutiny to honor the commitments made in this proposal, aiming finally to halt a conflict that has caused immense human suffering. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether these agreements can evolve into tangible outcomes that end violence and restore peace.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Guardian 2025-08-19

 

 

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Let's hope for peace. Lasting peace.

[dinsdale]

How to end the war immediately and bring an end to death and suffering. Hamas release all remaining hostages and bodies of hostages and lay down their arms.