A breakthrough may be on the horizon in the Gaza conflict after Hamas agreed to a ceasefire and hostage release proposal brokered by Egypt and Qatar, a Palestinian official told the BBC.
The two-stage plan, based on a US-backed framework, would allow for a 60-day pause in fighting. During this time, Hamas would release roughly half of the 50 Israeli hostages still in captivity, while broader talks on a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza would take place.
Hamas has signalled readiness to proceed, but Israeli leaders have not issued a formal response. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has previously argued that Israel will only accept a deal if all hostages are freed simultaneously.
Public pressure is mounting on Israel’s government. Over the weekend, hundreds of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv to call for an agreement. Families of hostages have urged officials to seize the opportunity before more lives are lost.
Despite this, Israel’s leadership is weighing a military expansion. Netanyahu has already instructed the cabinet to prepare for operations aimed at seizing Gaza City, a move that could complicate negotiations.
The conflict has now entered its 23rd month. The Israeli assault began after Hamas fighters attacked southern Israel on 7 October 2023, leaving 1,200 people dead and taking 251 hostages. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry says more than 62,000 Palestinians have been killed since then.