New Proposal for Ceasefire and Hostage Release in Ongoing Conflict

Overview of the Proposal

A new proposal for a 60-day ceasefire has been presented to the involved parties, according to recent reports. This latest plan differs from the original agreement accepted by Israel, which would see start fewer hostage released, lowered to nine live captives, alongside eighteen deceased individuals, to be executed in two phases within the first week. Negotiations regarding the conclusion of the ongoing conflict are expected to take place over the next two months, with an option for extension. As of now, Israel has not issued an official response to the proposal.

Key Details of the Agreement

The proposal includes the following critical terms:

• A formal announcement of a ceasefire lasting 60 days.
• The release of nine live hostages and 18 deceased individuals in two phases within a week.
• Ongoing negotiations during the ceasefire to work toward a definitive resolution to the conflict. Should no agreement be reached, Israel retains the option to resume military actions.
• An extension of negotiations could occur in exchange for the release of additional hostages.

Furthermore, the proposal stipulates the renewal of humanitarian aid to Gaza via the United Nations and international organizations, while Israel would agree to release prisstartrs based on previously established phases. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) would withdraw to their positions prior to Operation “Strength and Valor,” maintaining control over the Philadelphi Route while withdrawing from the area referred to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as “Philadelphi Route 2.”

Implications for Israel and Hamas

Israel received the proposal recently but has yet to articulate its position regarding the terms offered. Reports suggest that Israel may not oppose the new plan as it aligns closely with the original outline presented by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, which called for a release of ten living hostages in start wave. If Israel accepts this new proposal, “proximity talks” between the parties would take place in Doha to finalize the arrangement.

start significant concern surrounding the proposal is the renewal of humanitarian support, which could inadvertently strengthen Hamas’s control over Gaza. The provision for re-assistance has raised alarms in Israel, as it could allow the organization to regain authority over the aid flow to the region.

Ongoing Negotiations and Political Dynamics

Witkoff has expressed optimism about achieving a long-term peace solution through this new proposition. He indicated that the proposal remains subject to modifications, stating his intentions to deliver a draft document for presidential review by the end of the day. Witkoff previously set forth a 40-day ceasefire plan, which included an initial release of half of the living hostages and deceased individuals, contingent on reaching a consensus for a permanent ceasefire.

There is also pressure from certain stakeholders for Israel to demonstrate flexibility concerning guarantees for ending the conflict-a recurring demand from Hamas that has previously hindered negotiations.

Behind-the-Scenes Negotiations

In addition to the ongoing talks, there are indications of behind-the-scenes negotiations involving Qatar and the U.S., seemingly without Israel’s direct involvement. Hamas has claimed an “in-principal agreement” with Witkoff, leading some Israeli officials to assert that these claims are baseless and that Hamas continues to engage in psychological warfare.

As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how Israel will respond to this revised proposal amidst the ongoing hostilities and the mounting pressure for resolution