News from the Gaza Strip: Hamas accepted the proposal for a ceasefire and the release of new hostages
The Palestinian Hamas group announced that it has approved the proposal from Egyptian and Qatari mediators to restore peace in the Gaza Strip and release five Israelis held captive by Israel.
One of the Hamas leaders, Khalil al-Hayya, confirmed on Saturday evening that he had a positive response to this agreement draft. He stated that the proposal came from Egyptian and Qatari mediators two days ago, and Hamas accepted this proposal.
Israel and US negotiations: Is the agreement at risk?
Egyptian sources reported to Reuters that the Israeli side is also considering a new proposal and consultations with mediators are ongoing. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu also announced that a coordinated response proposal with the US has been presented.
If the agreement is reached, it could be signed on the eve of the Eid al-Fitr. However, there is also a possibility that this process may be as difficult as previous ceasefire negotiations.
Hostages and Hamas demands
The first phase of the ceasefire, which began on January 19, ended at the beginning of March, during which Hamas released 33 hostages. However, it is estimated that 59 people are still being held captive by them.
Hamas is demanding the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the cessation of hostilities in exchange for the release of all hostages. However, Israel is not agreeing to this condition and is proposing to extend the previous ceasefire terms in conjunction with the US.
Situation in Gaza tense: the number of casualties is increasing
On March 18, Israel began another attack on Gaza. According to the health ministry controlled by Hamas, over 900 Palestinians have been killed during this time.
Relatives of the Israeli hostages are criticizing Netanyahu, emphasizing that refusing to agree to a ceasefire puts their loved ones at risk.
Can the new agreement restore hope?
The acceptance of the proposal by Hamas could be an important step towards peace. However, Israel's response and the US position will determine the fate of the agreement.
How will this process change the situation in the Middle East? Clear information on this may emerge in the coming days.
