A U.S.-backed proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza includes the release of 28 Israeli hostages (both living and deceased) during the first week, in exchange for 125 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and the remains of 180 deceased Palestinians. The plan, viewed by Reuters, is guaranteed by U.S. President Donald Trump and mediators Egypt and Qatar.
Humanitarian aid would be allowed into Gaza as soon as Hamas agrees to the ceasefire. Under the proposal, the remaining 30 Israeli hostages would be released once a permanent ceasefire is secured.
The White House confirmed that Israel has accepted the proposal. Hamas is currently reviewing the plan and is expected to respond soon. However, fundamental disagreements persist. Israel demands Hamas disarm and return all hostages before halting military operations, while Hamas insists Israel must withdraw its forces and end the war without requiring disarmament.
The conflict began after Hamas’s deadly attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which left around 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 taken hostage. In response, Israel launched a sustained military campaign in Gaza, which has killed more than 54,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials.
