Washington: A new US-backed proposal for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is currently under consideration, aiming to bring a temporary halt to the conflict in Gaza and pave the way for discussions on a lasting resolution. Mediators from the US, Qatar, and Egypt have been working to secure an agreement from both parties.
According to details emerging from officials, the plan outlines a phased release of hostages and an exchange of bodies. Initially, ten living hostages and the remains of eighteen others would be returned over a set period, without any public ceremonies or parades. On day 10, Hamas would provide information on the remaining prisoners, including their status and medical reports, while Israel would offer full details on Palestinian prisoners detained since October 7, 2023.
A critical component of the proposal involves Israeli troop withdrawals. On day one, following the release of eight hostages, the Israeli army would pull back from parts of northern Gaza according to agreed-upon maps. On day seven, after the retrieval of five bodies, further Israeli withdrawals from parts of southern Gaza would occur, also based on agreed maps. A technical team is tasked with drawing these boundaries during rapid negotiations once the framework of the proposal is accepted.
Furthermore, in accordance with a January 19 agreement, humanitarian aid is slated to immediately enter Gaza in sufficient amounts, with the involvement of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross.
While Israel has reportedly agreed to the terms of the proposal, Hamas is currently studying it. A major sticking point in previous negotiations has been Hamas’s demand for a permanent end to the war and a full Israeli withdrawal, which Israel has resisted, insisting on the elimination of Hamas’s military capabilities. The success of this latest proposal hinges on bridging these fundamental disagreements.
