Israel proposed suspending hostilities in Gaza for release of hostages

The proposal from Israel to Hamas was made through Qatari and Egyptian intermediaries, offering a two-month pause in hostilities as part of a multi-stage deal that also involves the release of all hostages.

According to the proposal, the agreement would entail the release of all hostages, who are still alive, and the return of the bodies of the deceased in several stages. Initially, women, men over 60 years old, and individuals in critical condition would be released.

Subsequent stages would involve the release of female soldiers, men under 60 who are not military personnel, and Israeli male soldiers.

It is claimed that while this proposal doesn't include a formal ceasefire agreement, it represents the longest period of cessation of hostilities that Israel has offered to Hamas since the beginning of the conflict.

Reports, citing Israeli officials, suggest that Jerusalem is awaiting a response from Hamas, and there is cautious optimism about the possibility of making progress in the coming days.

Israel-Hamas war

On October 7, 2023, Hamas militants launched a massive invasion into Israel, capturing hundreds of people during the attack. In response, Jerusalem initiated a military operation against the terrorists, particularly in the Gaza Strip area.

Later, during hostage exchange negotiations, the terrorists released around 120 individuals, and Israel, in turn, released a group of Palestinian prisoners.

Previously, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined three conditions for ending the war against the Palestinian militants of Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

As reported earlier by The Wall Street Journal, Israeli forces have reportedly eliminated 20 to 30% of Hamas militants, which falls short of Israel's goal to completely dismantle the group.