Post by : Jyoti Gupta

Photo:Reuters

A senior Israeli official confirmed that the Israeli government remains steadfast in its demand that all hostages held by Hamas must be released in any potential ceasefire agreement. This statement came just a day after Hamas signaled its willingness to accept a new truce proposal, opening the door for possible renewed negotiations after nearly two years of devastating conflict.

Background of the Conflict

The current conflict traces back to October 2023, when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 people, mostly civilians. In response, Israel launched a military campaign against Gaza, causing massive casualties among Palestinians, with figures indicating that at least 62,064 people have died, including many women and children. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has become increasingly catastrophic, with essential services like electricity, water, and healthcare severely disrupted.

During the war, 251 hostages were taken by Hamas, and as of now, 49 remain in Gaza, including 27 whose deaths have been confirmed by the Israeli military. The issue of hostages has been a central point in all negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Previous indirect talks, often mediated by Qatar and Egypt with U.S. support, have led to temporary truces and small-scale hostage exchanges, but these have failed to secure a long-term ceasefire or lasting peace.

Recent Mediation Efforts

Qatar and Egypt, acting as mediators, have played a critical role in facilitating talks between the two sides. On Monday, Egyptian officials confirmed that a new truce proposal had been submitted to Israel, emphasizing that the “ball is now in Israel’s court.” Qatari foreign ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari explained that Hamas had given a “very positive response”, describing the new proposal as nearly identical to a previous plan Israel had agreed to.

Despite Hamas’s willingness, Israeli officials have maintained a firm position. A senior official, speaking anonymously, told reporters that Israel’s stance has not changed: no agreement will be accepted unless all hostages are released simultaneously, in accordance with Israel’s conditions for ending the war.

Details of the New Proposal

According to reports from local sources, the new proposal includes several components designed to reduce violence and provide humanitarian relief:

1. An initial 60-day truce between Israel and Hamas

2. Partial release of hostages, with further negotiations on full release

3. Release of some Palestinian prisoners held in Israel

4. Humanitarian aid access to Gaza, allowing food, medical supplies, and fuel to enter

Hamas’s leadership has expressed openness to the proposal. Senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi highlighted that his group has “opened the door wide to the possibility of reaching an agreement,” but questioned whether Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu would accept it, as past opportunities have been blocked or delayed.

Domestic and International Pressures

Prime Minister Netanyahu has not publicly commented on the latest truce plan, but he has previously stated that Israel would only accept a deal in which all hostages are released at once. Netanyahu now faces growing pressure both domestically and internationally.

* Domestic Protests: Tens of thousands of people gathered in Tel Aviv over the weekend, demanding an end to the war and the safe return of hostages. These protests reflect growing public frustration with the ongoing conflict and Israel’s approach to negotiations.

* Political Opposition: Far-right Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir strongly criticized the proposal, warning that yielding to Hamas could result in a “tragedy.” Ben Gvir and other hardline leaders oppose any compromise and favor continued military operations in Gaza.

* International Diplomacy: The United States, Qatar, and Egypt are actively involved in shuttling between the two sides, emphasizing humanitarian concerns and urging both parties to reach a sustainable agreement.

Escalating Violence in Gaza

While negotiations continue, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. On Tuesday, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported that 31 people were killed in Israeli air and artillery strikes, particularly in the densely populated neighborhoods of Zeitoun and Sabra. Residents described a terrifying environment of continuous shelling, drone attacks, and artillery fire, which has made daily life nearly impossible.

Hussein al-Dairi, a 44-year-old resident of Sabra, said:

“Tanks are firing shells, mortars are falling, and drones are attacking. We heard Hamas agreed to a truce, but the war continues, and civilians are suffering.”

The Israeli military confirmed it is targeting Hamas military infrastructure but stated that precautions are being taken to minimize civilian casualties. However, media restrictions and limited access in Gaza make independent verification of these claims difficult.

Humanitarian Consequences

The ongoing conflict has created one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises. Hospitals are overwhelmed, basic supplies are scarce, and tens of thousands of civilians are trapped amid active conflict zones. The UN and international aid organizations have repeatedly called for a ceasefire to allow safe delivery of food, water, and medical aid to the affected population.

Why This Matters

This latest development in the Israel-Hamas conflict is significant for several reasons:

1. It represents another opportunity for a ceasefire after two years of war.

2. The release of hostages remains central to any negotiations, reflecting the high stakes for Israel.

3. Hamas’s willingness to engage in talks signals a potential shift, though military escalation continues, highlighting the fragile nature of peace efforts.

4. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza underscores the urgent need for international intervention and aid access.

While a formal breakthrough has not yet occurred, the renewed negotiations, supported by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, may offer a pathway to ending hostilities if both sides are willing to compromise and prioritize civilian safety.