Israel has reportedly presented a proposal to Hamas through Qatari and Egyptian mediators, outlining a multi-phase deal that includes a two-month pause in the ongoing conflict between the two parties.
The news, initially reported by Axios and citing information from unnamed Israeli officials, suggests that the deal would also involve the release of all remaining hostages held in Gaza.
Currently, neither Israel, Qatar, nor Egypt has officially confirmed the existence of such a proposal or its details.
The reported progress in peace talks coincided with the visit of US President Joe Biden’s adviser, Brett McGurk, to Egypt on Sunday. McGurk is also expected to travel to Qatar in the coming days.
The Israeli war cabinet has purportedly approved the parameters of a new proposal for a hostage deal with Hamas. According to Israeli officials, these proposals differ from past offers rejected by the Palestinian group.
The current deal addresses the release of more than 130 hostages still being held in Gaza, a contentious issue that has long strained relations between Israel and Hamas.
While these reports indicate a potential breakthrough, it’s essential to note that the situation is fluid, and official confirmation is awaited from the involved parties.
In a related development, the United States urged Israel on Monday to protect innocent people in hospitals, medical staff, and patients.
This plea comes as Israeli forces advanced deep into western Khan Younis in Gaza, marking their first entry into the Al-Mawasi district near the Mediterranean coast.
Israeli forces reportedly stormed Al-Khair hospital in the region and arrested medical staff, according to Gaza health ministry spokesman Ashraf al Qidra.
Additionally, another hospital in the area is said to be under siege as the conflict intensifies.
The international community closely watches these events, emphasizing the need for the protection of civilians and medical facilities in the conflict zone.
As the situation unfolds, there is hope that diplomatic efforts and proposed peace deals can provide a path towards de-escalation and a lasting resolution to the longstanding tensions between Israel and Hamas.
However, until official confirmation is received, the region remains on edge, with the fate of the proposed ceasefire and hostage release hanging in the balance.
The involvement of US officials in the region suggests a heightened interest from the international community in achieving a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members