Israel and Hamas Propose Ceasefire: Key Terms Revealed

In a significant development in the Middle East, Israel and Hamas have outlined their terms for a ceasefire agreement, aiming to end the ongoing conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The proposed terms from both sides include prisoner exchanges, a halt in military operations, and measures to alleviate the suffering of civilians.

Israel has put forth a proposal that includes the release of between 3,000 and 5,000 prisoners selected by Hamas. In a marked escalation of its stance, Israel threatened to invade Rafah if its deal was rejected. The Israeli offer also includes withdrawing its forces from Gaza, a ceasefire lasting four months—extending the previous proposal of one and a half months—allowing the return of displaced individuals to their areas, and improving living conditions by establishing better camps, restoring water supply, and operating sewage pumps.

Hamas, on its part, has detailed its agreement aimed at ceasing mutual military operations to achieve a complete and lasting calm. Their proposal includes exchanging prisoners between the two sides, ending the blockade on Gaza, and initiating reconstruction efforts along with ensuring the return of residents and displaced persons to their homes. The agreement outlines a three-stage process over a 135-day period, starting with a 45-day humanitarian stage focusing on the release of “Israeli” detainees, including women, children under the age of 19, the elderly, and the sick, in exchange for a specific number of Palestinian prisoners. It also emphasizes intensifying humanitarian aid, redeploying forces away from populated areas, and beginning reconstruction of essential infrastructure.

The second stage, also lasting 45 days, involves the release of all detained men in exchange for additional Palestinian prisoners, continuation of humanitarian measures from the first stage, and comprehensive reconstruction efforts. The final stage focuses on exchanging the bodies and remains of the deceased, alongside continuing humanitarian measures agreed upon in the previous stages.

Both Israel and Hamas have outlined comprehensive terms for a ceasefire, reflecting a complex negotiation process involving prisoner exchanges, humanitarian aid, and the reconstruction of Gaza. The agreement’s success hinges on the commitment of both parties to cease hostilities and address the dire humanitarian situation in the region. Guarantors of the agreement, including Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, Russia, and the United Nations, are expected to play a pivotal role in supervising and ensuring the implementation of these terms, aiming for a lasting peace and improved living conditions for the people of Gaza.

GO+ Agencies