Hamas has reportedly agreed to a new ceasefire proposal in the Gaza Strip involving the release of hostages, as Israel continues planning a large-scale military operation in the territory. According to sources cited by The Times UK, the deal would see Hamas release ten living hostages and 18 deceased individuals in exchange for a 60-day truce. Under the agreement, Israel would withdraw troops from northern and central Gaza and allow increased humanitarian aid via the United Nations and Red Crescent.
A Hamas source said the group “agreed to the new ceasefire proposal without requesting any amendments.” Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Hamas remains under “immense pressure” but appeared undeterred in advancing plans to occupy Gaza City and complete Israel’s military objectives.
Egypt has taken a more prominent role in the negotiations in Cairo, focusing on the logistical aspects of a phased ceasefire and eventual Israeli withdrawal to a security border. The urgency of talks has increased following Netanyahu’s declaration that the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) would soon seize Gaza City and remaining areas to eliminate Hamas influence.
Inside Gaza City, thousands of Palestinians have fled neighborhoods such as Zeitoun amid intensified Israeli bombardments, while the Palestinian Red Crescent has pledged to remain in hospitals despite evacuation orders. Israeli demonstrations have also erupted, with citizens warning that the military’s entry into Gaza City could endanger hostages and troops in heavily booby-trapped urban areas.
Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz is expected to approve plans for the offensive imminently, while Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir outlined a military strategy that avoids central refugee camps but prepares for a long-term occupation of the city.
The United Nations has condemned forced displacement, and several countries, including the UK, France, and Canada, are considering recognizing a Palestinian state should ceasefire talks fail. Israel insists on a full release of all living hostages at once, diverging from a U.S.-backed plan proposing a staged exchange.
Nearly 62,000 Palestinians have died since October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched attacks killing 1,200 Israelis and taking more than 200 hostages. The Israeli military, heavily reliant on reservists and facing personnel shortages, is reportedly recruiting Jewish volunteers from abroad, including the United States and France, to support ongoing operations.
