Hamas, a Palestinian group, has stated that it is willing to consider any ideas for a ceasefire, but maintains its insistence that any deal must permanently end Israel’s aggression towards Gaza. The group has received Israel’s official response to their latest ceasefire proposal and will carefully review it before responding, according to Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’ deputy Gaza chief based in Qatar.
Negotiations for a ceasefire have hit a standstill after over six months of Israel’s attacks on Gaza, with Hamas holding firm on their demands for an end to the violence. An Egyptian delegation recently visited Israel to discuss ways to restart talks and secure the release of captives held in Gaza since attacks on southern Israel in October.
White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has noted a renewed momentum in ceasefire talks, and Israel has indicated readiness to give negotiations on captive release one last chance before considering a ground invasion of Rafah. International efforts to address the conflict in Gaza are also underway, with a Gaza-focused session planned at the World Economic Forum’s special meeting in Saudi Arabia featuring key figures from Palestine, Egypt, and the UN aid coordinator.