Hamas has proposed changes to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan in Gaza, aiming for a permanent end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. While Hamas expressed readiness to release 10 live hostages and hand over 18 bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, it stood firm on its broader demands—conditions Israel has consistently rejected.
President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, criticized the Hamas response as “totally unacceptable,” asserting that the proposed amendments hinder progress. Witkoff urged Hamas to accept the current framework to begin proximity talks.
Hamas wants the release of hostages in three stages over a 60-day ceasefire and better humanitarian aid access. However, Israel remains firm on its demands: the full dismantling of Hamas and the return of all 58 remaining hostages.
While Israel confirmed it had accepted the deal proposed by the U.S., it continues military operations in Gaza. The IDF recently confirmed the killing of Mohammad Sinwar, Hamas’ Gaza chief and brother of the group’s former leader Yahya Sinwar.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation worsens. UN officials warn of famine, and aid convoys are being looted amid Gaza’s total blockade. Aid groups are calling for significantly increased aid deliveries and criticizing Israel’s handling of humanitarian access, while Israel blames Hamas for diverting resources.
The conflict traces back to the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas that killed 1,200 Israelis and led to over 54,000 Palestinian deaths during the ongoing Israeli offensive.