Hamas Offers to Halt Fighting If Israel Agrees to Truce
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he welcomed Egypt's readiness to reach a deal "for the release of the hostages" still held by militants in Gaza
- Hamas is willing to halt fighting if Israel agrees to a ceasefire
- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is actively engaging regional leaders to facilitate a resolution
- The ongoing conflict has resulted in thousands of civilian deaths
Hamas has signaled its readiness to cease hostilities if Israel consents to a ceasefire agreement, as diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict appear to gain traction.
On Thursday, Israel’s spy chief is set to participate in talks about a potential truce in Gaza, amid renewed hopes following the recent death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
A senior Hamas official revealed that their Doha-based leadership discussed potential terms for a truce with Egyptian mediators in Cairo. Hamas outlined that they would stop fighting on the condition that Israel commits to a ceasefire, withdraws from Gaza, facilitates the return of displaced individuals, engages in a serious prisoner exchange, and allows humanitarian aid access.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has welcomed Egypt’s initiative to broker a deal for the hostages held by militants in Gaza. Following the Cairo discussions, Netanyahu instructed the head of the Mossad to travel to Qatar to further advance negotiations.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, on his 11th visit to the region since the conflict escalated, is actively pursuing new avenues for peace, seeking a resolution that would allow for an Israeli withdrawal and prevent Hamas from regaining strength.
As both sides engage in talks, the situation remains dire on the ground, with significant casualties reported in Gaza due to ongoing military operations.
