Qatar announced on Thursday that Hamas has given preliminary approval to a ceasefire and hostage deal concerning the Gaza Strip, as reported by Reuters.
This development follows discussions in Paris, where Israel also consented to the proposal. Despite the initial acceptance, a conclusive deal has not been reached, with Hamas yet to provide a definitive response to the proposal. The discussions aim to establish a truce and facilitate the release of hostages in Gaza, marking a significant step in negotiations.
The ceasefire proposal, mediated by Qatar and Egypt and agreed upon in Paris with the involvement of the United States, includes a phased approach. The initial 40-day phase would halt hostilities and see the release of civilians held hostage by Hamas. Subsequent phases would involve the release of Israeli soldiers and the return of deceased hostages’ bodies. However, Hamas’s acceptance hinges on assurances from Israel regarding a complete withdrawal from Gaza and an end to the conflict.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance remains firm, vowing not to withdraw Israeli troops until Hamas is entirely defeated, indicating a significant gap between the negotiating parties’ positions.