Qatar proposes new ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas
Qatar has put forward a new initiative to end the war in the Gaza Strip between Israel and Palestinian militants Hamas, according to Xinhua.
Xinhua asserts that, under the condition of anonymity, a source revealed that Doha has presented a proposal to Israel, the Palestinian Authority, Hamas, and influential Arab and international organizations.
In the proposed initiative, Qatar suggests a permanent ceasefire to pave the way for a large-scale exchange of prisoners between Hamas and Israel to address the hostage problem in Gaza.
It also proposes the creation of a Palestinian consensus government, not directly involving Hamas, for post-war governance in the Gaza Strip.
The report notes that Qatar's proposal aims to provide guarantees to prevent a recurrence of the events of October 7, when Hamas violently invaded southern Israel, and is directed at ensuring a sustainable ceasefire.
Israel-Hamas war
On October 7, Hamas militants invaded Israel. Terrorists began killing and kidnapping both military and civilian individuals. Shortly after, Jerusalem declared the Operation Iron Swords and targeted terrorist locations in the Gaza Strip.
On November 24, a temporary ceasefire for the release of prisoners commenced between Tel Aviv and the militants, with Qatar acting as an intermediary. However, hostilities were resumed on December 1, according to Israel, due to the violation of the ceasefire terms by Hamas.
On December 20, Israel proposed another temporary ceasefire to the Palestinians for a week. However, Hamas rejected the offer.
In the White House, it was stated that the United States wants the war between Israel and Hamas to end as soon as possible. On the same day, Israel's Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, stated that the war would last for several more months.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu outlined 3 conditions that must be met for the end of the war against the Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip.