Israel is evaluating a 60-day ceasefire proposal in Gaza that could pause hostilities and bring critical aid into the territory, Xinhua reports. Hamas and allied factions have agreed to the plan, which hinges on a swap: the release of 10 living Israeli hostages in return for 140 Palestinian prisoners serving life terms and 60 more jailed over 15 years.
Under the framework, essential supplies—fuel, water, and electricity—would flow into Gaza immediately after the truce starts. Hospitals and bakeries would be rehabilitated, and rescue teams would get the equipment needed to clear rubble and save lives. Israeli forces would temporarily halt operations and reposition to secure safe corridors for humanitarian convoys.
Egyptian and Qatari mediators will liaise with U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to nudge Israel toward a formal response. Once the ceasefire is active, negotiators aim to expand discussions toward a comprehensive agreement or even a permanent truce.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged that Hamas is "under immense pressure" to accept Israel's conditions. Yet he also signaled preparations for further military action. In a video update, Netanyahu revealed he and top defence officials have planned an offensive to "conquer" Gaza City and push hundreds of thousands of Palestinians further south—though no date has been set. International observers warn such an operation could escalate the humanitarian toll in an already devastated enclave.
As the proposal moves through diplomatic channels, the stakes are high: a temporary ceasefire could open life-saving aid routes and offer a rare pause in violence, while the prospect of renewed fighting looms large for Gaza's civilians.
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Israel weighs ceasefire proposal as Gaza humanitarian crisis deepens
cgtn.com
