Hamas has formally responded to the latest ceasefire proposal concerning the Gaza Strip by requesting key amendments, according to Qatari and Egyptian mediators. The militant group submitted its counter-proposal just as Israeli airstrikes intensified across several parts of Gaza, including Rafah.
While the specific amendments sought by Hamas have not yet been made public, sources familiar with the negotiation process indicated that the changes pertain to the timeline for Israeli withdrawal and guarantees regarding Palestinian prisoner releases. Hamas insists on a permanent ceasefire rather than a temporary truce, along with reconstruction commitments and humanitarian guarantees.
The mediators, backed by the United States, are working to bridge gaps between Hamas and the Israeli government, which has not issued a formal response to the requested amendments. Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens, with the United Nations repeatedly warning that the enclave is on the brink of collapse due to ongoing bombardments and restricted aid access.
This latest development comes amid mounting international pressure to end hostilities, which have killed tens of thousands since October 2023. Despite the negotiation setbacks, the involvement of Egypt and Qatar remains critical to sustaining fragile dialogue channels.
