Reports: Israel Floats 60-Day Gaza Ceasefire for Hostage Release

(MENAFN) Israeli media outlets report that Israel has proposed a 60-day cessation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of approximately half of the living Israeli hostages held by Hamas. According to media reports, unnamed Israeli officials indicated that this offer was presented during discussions held in Doha, Qatar, on Saturday.

Israel believes around 58 individuals taken captive remain in Gaza, with about 20 thought to still be alive. This development occurs against a backdrop of significant concern regarding the over 9,900 Palestinians currently detained in Israeli prisons. Palestinian and Israeli human rights organizations and media sources have reported these prisoners are enduring harsh conditions, including allegations of torture, starvation, and inadequate medical care, which have purportedly resulted in numerous fatalities.

The proposed truce also reportedly includes provisions for future negotiations concerning the trajectory of the conflict. Sources suggest Israel is seeking discussions on the disarmament of Palestinian resistance groups and the expulsion of their leaders – conditions Israel has consistently underscored.

However, Hamas has repeatedly dismissed demands for disarmament, asserting its commitment to armed resistance as long as Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories persists.

Furthermore, the proposal reportedly contemplates the potential release of Palestinian detainees, including those serving life sentences and approximately 1,000 others with standard prison terms, as reported by Israeli Media.

The reports also indicate that Israel maintains its stance against withdrawing from the Philadelphi and Netzarim Corridors within Gaza but is open to discussing an end to the war during the proposed ceasefire period.

As of now, neither Hamas nor Qatari mediators have issued any comments regarding this reported proposal.

The Israeli military has been engaged in an intense offensive in Gaza since October 2023, resulting in the deaths of over 53,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children.

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