- Submitted response to latest US-mediated ceasefire proposal via Qatari/Egyptian mediators
- Core demands: permanent ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal, guaranteed aid access
- Hostage exchange offer: 10 living captives + 18 bodies for Palestinian prisoners
- Conditions mirror previous negotiation rounds despite mounting international pressure
Hamas formally delivered its position on Saturday regarding the ceasefire framework proposed by US envoy Steve Witkoff. The response, channeled through Middle Eastern mediators, maintains the group's long-standing requirements for ending hostilities in Gaza. Analysts note this marks the 7th proposal rejected or amended by Hamas since October 2023.
The militant organization's three non-negotiable conditions include a complete cessation of military operations, the withdrawal of all Israeli forces from Gaza within 45 days, and binding guarantees for uninterrupted humanitarian shipments. United Nations data shows Gaza's population now requires 500+ daily aid trucks – triple pre-conflict levels – to prevent famine.
Israel faces mounting pressure over the hostage exchange terms involving 10 surviving captives and 18 deceased individuals. Security experts suggest this partial release could represent 15% of Hamas' total hostage inventory. The proposed prisoner swap ratio of 1:25 aligns with previous deals, though Israeli officials dispute the numbers.
Regional dynamics complicate negotiations, with Egypt's $450 million border reinforcement project creating new smuggling challenges. A 2023 ceasefire case study from Khan Younis demonstrates how temporary truces collapsed when aid distribution networks failed. Current proposals include third-party monitoring mechanisms to prevent similar outcomes.
Humanitarian organizations warn Gaza's infrastructure requires $18.5 billion for reconstruction – equivalent to 85% of Palestine's 2022 GDP. The World Bank reports 72% of healthcare facilities remain non-functional, amplifying disease risks amidst overcrowded shelters. Continuous aid flows could prevent 34,000 predicted child malnutrition cases through 2025.
International responses remain divided, with Qatar pledging $360 million in immediate relief while the EU debates arms embargo proposals. Diplomatic sources indicate the US plan includes phased Israeli withdrawals tied to Hamas' disarmament – a clause absent from public documents. Further developments are expected within 72 hours as mediators shuttle between capitals.
