In a dramatic turn in the Gaza Strip, Hamas confirmed on Saturday that it had accepted a ceasefire proposal from its mediator brothers, signaling a potential pause in the ongoing conflict. Khalil Al-Hayya, head of Hamas in Gaza, explained that the proposal was received two days ago and approved as part of a commitment to protect families and communities, while emphasizing that the right to resistance remains if the occupation persists.
Meanwhile, Israel has affirmed it received a truce proposal and promptly issued a counteroffer. According to state-owned Kan TV News, the counteroffer—fully coordinated with the United States—suggests that a few of the 59 hostages might be released in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire in Gaza.
At the same time, the Israel Defense Forces have initiated ground operations in the Al Janina area in Rafah, southern Gaza. The operations targeted militant infrastructures and were supported by airstrikes aimed at military targets following mortar launches toward Israeli territory.
This delicate interplay of negotiated pauses and military maneuvers underscores the complexity of the situation in the Gaza Strip. As mediation efforts continue amid escalating tensions, regional observers remain watchful of the evolving dynamics that merge diplomacy with real-world impact.
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Hamas accepts truce deal as Israel launches Rafah ground offensive
cgtn.com
