The United States has put forward a 60-day ceasefire proposal aimed at de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The plan, backed by President Donald Trump and mediated by Egypt and Qatar, includes a hostage-prisoner exchange and immediate humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
Under the proposed agreement, Hamas would release 28 Israeli hostages, both alive and deceased, within the first week. In return, Israel would free 1,236 Palestinian prisoners and return the remains of 180 deceased Palestinians. The ceasefire would also allow for humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza, facilitated by the United Nations and the Red Crescent.
The White House confirmed that Israel has accepted the proposal, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informing the families of hostages about the agreement. However, Hamas has expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the plan fails to meet its “just and legitimate demands”. The group is currently reviewing Israel’s response before making a final decision.
The proposal comes amid mounting international pressure for a resolution to the conflict, which has resulted in over 54,000 Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction in Gaza. While the ceasefire is intended as a temporary measure, the plan allows for an extension if negotiations for a permanent ceasefire remain ongoing!