Hamas Proposes Changes to Gaza Cease-Fire Plan, US to Evaluate Response

Hamas has responded to the US-backed proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza, seeking some amendments to the deal. While the response falls short of an outright acceptance, it keeps negotiations alive for an end to the eight-month war. Qatar and Egypt, key mediators in the process, have confirmed receiving Hamas' response and are currently studying it. The response includes amendments related to the cease-fire, withdrawal, reconstruction, and prisoner exchange. However, Hamas officials remain wary of whether Israel will implement the terms of the deal, particularly regarding a permanent end to fighting and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of all hostages held by militants.US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been in the region this week, pushing for Hamas to accept the proposal. He emphasized that the UN Security Council's vote in favor of the plan demonstrates global support. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has given conflicting signals regarding Israel's acceptance of the proposal, stating that Israel will not stop until its goal of destroying Hamas is achieved.Hamas and the smaller Islamic Jihad militant group have submitted their reply to Qatar and Egypt, expressing readiness to "deal positively to arrive at an agreement" and prioritize bringing a complete stop to the war. The proposal has raised hopes of ending the conflict that has resulted in the deaths of over 37,000 Palestinians and displaced 80% of Gaza's population.Blinken attended a Gaza aid conference in Jordan, where he announced over USD 400 million in additional aid for Palestinians in Gaza and the wider region. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for all border crossings to be opened to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Meanwhile, the UN human rights office stated that both Israeli forces and Palestinian militants may have committed war crimes during a recent Israeli raid that rescued four hostages.The UN Security Council overwhelmingly approved the proposal, with 14 members voting in favor and Russia abstaining. The resolution calls for the full implementation of the proposal's terms without delay or condition. The three-phased plan includes a cease-fire, release of some hostages, withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas, and the safe distribution of humanitarian assistance. Negotiations would then be launched for a permanent end to hostilities and the release of all remaining hostages. The final phase would focus on reconstruction and the return of deceased hostages' remains to their families.Hamas had previously embraced a similar proposal that was rejected by Israel. However, Netanyahu faces political pressure from his far-right coalition allies who oppose the plan. Thousands of Israelis, including families of the hostages, have demonstrated in favor of the US-backed proposal.The transition from the first to the second phase of the plan remains a sticking point. Hamas seeks assurances that Israel will not resume the war, while Israel wants to avoid protracted negotiations that could indefinitely prolong the cease-fire while hostages remain in captivity. Blinken emphasized that the proposal would bring an immediate cease-fire and commit both parties to negotiate an enduring one.The response from Hamas indicates ongoing negotiations and a potential path towards ending the conflict in Gaza. However, concerns remain regarding Israel's commitment to implementing the terms of the deal. The international community continues to push for a resolution that prioritizes the well-being of civilians and addresses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.