Israel Slams Hamas' New Ceasefire And Hostage Exchange Proposal Amid Clashes In Gaza: 'Unrealistic Demands'

Hamas reportedly presented another ceasefire proposal that includes an exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. This proposal is now under consideration by mediators and the U.S. as tensions in the region continue to escalate.

What Happened: Hamas has put forward a ceasefire proposal to mediators and the U.S. that involves the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian detainees, Reuters reported on Friday. The plan suggests the initial release of Israeli hostages, particularly women, children, the elderly, and the sick, in return for 700 to 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, some serving life sentences.

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded to the ceasefire terms as “unrealistic demands.” An update on the situation is anticipated to be presented to Israel’s war and extended security cabinets on Friday.

Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are working to establish a ceasefire and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has announced efforts to secure a truce, increase aid, and facilitate movement for displaced Palestinians.

“We are talking about reaching a ceasefire in Gaza, meaning a truce, providing the biggest quantity of aid,” he said.

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Why It Matters: Earlier, Hamas proposed a three-stage ceasefire plan that included the release of Israeli hostages and the reconstruction of Gaza. This plan was structured into three 45-day phases, with the first phase involving the release of specific Israeli and Palestinian detainees.

Despite international pressure, Netanyahu dismissed the proposal and vowed to “finish the job” in Gaza, with threats of escalating military action if Israeli hostages were not released by Ramadan.

Recently, the Biden administration imposed sanctions on Israeli settlers in the West Bank amid the conflict, signaling escalating tensions between the U.S. and Israel.

Amid the conflict, Israel pledged to increase humanitarian aid to Gaza in response to the international outcry over the hunger crisis in the region.

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