In a significant development aimed at halting months of bloodshed, Israel has reportedly agreed to a new ceasefire proposal put forward by Steve Witkoff, US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy. While Hamas has yet to formally respond, the group has confirmed it received the proposal from mediators and is reviewing its contents. The initiative offers a renewed hope for a pause in hostilities and the possible release of hostages as part of a broader de-escalation effort in the Gaza conflict.
According to local Israeli media, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signalled support for the plan. Witkoff, speaking from Washington, expressed cautious optimism, stating his belief in achieving a temporary ceasefire that could pave the way toward a lasting and peaceful resolution. The latest move follows repeated failed attempts at brokering a truce since the conflict’s violent escalation in October 2023.
Key Details of the Ceasefire Proposal
Though the full proposal has not been made public, details confirmed by both a Hamas official and an Egyptian mediator indicate that the plan involves a 60-day pause in fighting. During this period, Israel would pull back its troops to earlier ceasefire lines. Hamas would be expected to release 10 living hostages and return several bodies, in exchange for the release of over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners, including 100 individuals convicted in deadly attacks.
Crucially, the proposal includes guarantees for substantive negotiations aimed at a long-term truce. It also seeks to prevent a repeat of Israel’s March military resumption following hostage releases. These assurances appear intended to build trust and prevent renewed violence once the initial exchange is complete.
Ongoing Conflict and Casualty Toll
The proposal comes amid Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza, which has continued despite mounting international pressure for restraint. Israel maintains that its objective is to dismantle Hamas entirely—by force, disarmament, or exile—and recover the remaining 58 hostages still held since the October 7 attack.
The conflict was sparked by a Hamas-led assault in which 1,200 people, mostly civilians, were killed and 251 taken hostage. In retaliation, Israel launched an extensive military campaign that, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, has claimed the lives of approximately 54,000 Palestinians. The ministry does not differentiate between combatants and civilians in its figures.
