Hamas tells mediators it will accept latest ceasefire proposal
The Palestinian terrorist group Hamas has informed mediators that it has accepted a new ceasefire proposal with Israel in the Gaza Strip. An official from the group told Reuters news agency, without providing further details. An official from Egypt, which mediates in the conflict, confirmed that Hamas has accepted. Israel has not yet responded.
A Palestinian source said there is a plan for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of ten living Israeli hostages. According to the Egyptian official, this involves half of the hostages. In return, Israel will release Palestinian prisoners. Israeli media also report that Hamas will also hand over the bodies of eighteen deceased hostages.
Israel ended a previous ceasefire in March, and new negotiations were subsequently initiated. In the Gaza Strip, residents are now fleeing Gaza City en masse, where Israel is carrying out bombardments.
Besides Egypt, Qatar and the United States are mediating ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. The war there has led to a humanitarian crisis. Israel also plans to occupy Gaza City.