Israel has reportedly denied receiving any new proposed peace deal from Egyptian negotiators, despite Hamas claiming that its leaders had responded positively to the plan. The proposed deal involves the release of five hostages, including the final American captive, Edan Alexander. In return, Israel would allow the flow of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip and halt the bombardment of the territory for a week, as well as release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
A Hamas official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the group had responded positively to the proposal. However, Israel has refuted claims of being presented with any new proposal to pause the conflict and release further hostages, including Alexander.
The main aim for Israel remains getting Hamas to agree to the US-backed “Witkoff proposal,” which would extend the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas and involve the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian security prisoners. Israel has made it clear that it will continue to increase pressure on Hamas until the group agrees to their terms.
Israeli forces have warned of a widespread ground campaign in Gaza if Hamas does not comply with the proposed terms. The resumption of fighting in the Gaza Strip since March 18 has reportedly led to the deaths of over 500 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health in the territory.
In a recent development, an Israeli airstrike on a Gaza hospital resulted in the death of a top Hamas official, Ismail Barhoum. The collapse of a proposed ceasefire last week has escalated tensions, with an ex-Israel Defense Forces spokesman warning of severe consequences for Hamas if hostages are not released.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff, who has been involved in ceasefire negotiations, expressed disappointment at the breakdown of the peace talks and admitted to possibly being misled by Hamas. Despite the setbacks, efforts are being made to resume negotiations and secure the release of hostages.
The situation in the Gaza Strip remains tense, with both sides seemingly at an impasse. The international community is closely monitoring the developments in the region, hoping for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
