Israel Studying Hamas Response to Hostage Release Deal and Gaza Ceasefire

Israel is carefully examining the response provided by Hamas regarding a proposed ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza, as stated by a spokesperson from Israel's Mossad intelligence agency. The spokesperson, speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, affirmed that "The mediators of the hostage deal have given the negotiating team Hamas' response to the hostage deal outline. Israel is examining the response and will respond to the mediators."

A representative from the Islamist militant group, Hamas, acknowledged that they have engaged in discussions with mediators in an attempt to halt the conflict, but did not provide further details regarding the exchange of ideas.

Mediation Efforts

Mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have been actively working to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of the 120 remaining hostages in Gaza. Despite their sustained efforts, progress has been hindered, leading to a prolonged situation.

Hamas has emphasized that any prospective agreement must result in the cessation of hostilities and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Conversely, Israel has expressed willingness to consider temporary cessation of hostilities, stressing the objective of eradicating the threat posed by Hamas.

Conflict Timeline

The conflict in Gaza was instigated when Hamas militants infiltrated southern Israel on October 7, resulting in the loss of 1,200 lives and the capture of approximately 250 hostages. In response, Israel launched an offensive, which, according to figures from the Gaza health ministry, led to the death of nearly 38,000 individuals and extensive devastation in the densely populated coastal enclave.

The ceasefire proposal, initially disclosed by U.S. President Joe Biden in late May, comprises a phased approach. The first two phases involve the gradual release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. The subsequent phase entails the release of Palestinian prisoners, reconstruction efforts in Gaza, and the repatriation of the remains of deceased hostages.