Hamas Gives Positive Response to Gaza 60-Day Ceasefire Proposal

Hamas has submitted a positive response to a US-brokered proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, signaling progress toward ending the nearly two-year conflict with Israel. The proposed deal, mediated by Egypt and Qatar and backed by President Donald Trump, includes phased releases of Israeli hostages—ten living and eighteen deceased—and provisions for humanitarian aid deliveries throughout the truce. The ceasefire would feature pauses in military activity and Israeli troop redeployments in northern and southern Gaza, alongside negotiations aimed at a permanent ceasefire covering key issues such as prisoner exchanges, troop withdrawals, and Gaza governance. While Hamas seeks assurances for an effective end to hostilities, Israel retains the right to resume military actions if permanent terms are not agreed upon after the 60 days. Recent developments have been influenced by the reduced regional influence of Iran following a separate conflict, potentially facilitating broader peace agreements involving other Middle Eastern states. Final detailed negotiations between the parties are expected before the ceasefire agreement can be officially implemented.