Hamas Accepts Cease-Fire Proposal, Israel Unconvinced as Tensions Rise in Israel-Gaza Conflict

The Palestinian group Hamas has announced its approval of a cease-fire proposal put forward by Egypt and Qatar. The decision was conveyed by Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh during conversations with Qatar's Prime Minister and the Egyptian Intelligence Minister. According to a statement published on Shehab News, Hamas has agreed to the proposal regarding a cease-fire agreement.

Israeli Response

Meanwhile, Israeli officials have expressed reservations about the proposal, stating that it has been "softened" by Egypt and is not acceptable to Israel. However, Israel has not officially commented on the specific details of the proposal accepted by Hamas, including any potential release of hostages, Palestinian prisoners, or the duration of the cease-fire.

International Reactions

The United States, through State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller, has confirmed that they have received Hamas' response and are currently reviewing it. The U.S. continues to emphasize the importance of a hostage deal for the well-being of both the Israeli and Palestinian people.

U.S. and Israeli Engagement

CIA Director William Burns has been involved in the negotiations, having traveled to Cairo and Doha to participate in the discussions. Additionally, President Biden has been briefed on Hamas' response, and he recently spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to update him on the efforts to secure a hostage deal.

The recent developments come amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Hamas, labeled a terrorist group by both the U.S. and Israel, had launched a surprise attack, resulting in casualties and hostages. Furthermore, Israel has warned about the imminent possibility of a ground offensive in the Gaza city of Rafah, urging the evacuation of around 100,000 Palestinians from the eastern part of the city.