Israel has signed off on a 60-day ceasefire proposal for Gaza tabled by the U.S. Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, the White House announced Thursday. Under the deal, Israel would release 10 living hostages and return the remains of 18 others.
Hamas says it is reviewing the offer but has criticized the plan for failing to meet core Palestinian demands: a full halt to hostilities and lifting the long-standing blockade on Gaza. "The proposal would allow the occupation and humanitarian suffering to continue," said Basem Naim, member of Hamas’s political bureau.
Deep mistrust has derailed past truce attempts, and more than 54,000 Palestinians have been killed amid the destruction of entire neighbourhoods, according to Gaza health authorities. Israel insists that all 58 hostages still held in Gaza be freed and that Hamas disarm before any permanent peace can take hold.
As global pressure mounts for an end to the conflict, diplomats and aid groups are watching to see whether both sides will bridge their gaps. For young global citizens and changemakers, the coming days could define a new chapter in humanitarian relief and regional stability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
