Hamas Responds to US Ceasefire Proposal, Demanding Permanent Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange

Strategic Insights -

Hamas has responded to the US ceasefire proposal, calling for a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and guarantees for the provision of aid to the enclave. The Islamic militant group also sought a prisoner exchange, offering to release 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners. The US proposal, made by Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special envoy, had called for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza and a prisoner swap. However, Hamas's response was deemed "totally unacceptable" by Witkoff, who called for the group to accept the framework proposal as the basis for proximity talks.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hamas has responded to the US ceasefire proposal, seeking a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and guarantees for the provision of aid to the enclave.
  • The group is demanding a prisoner exchange, offering to release 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners.
  • The US proposal, made by Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special envoy, calls for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza and a prisoner swap.
  • Hamas's response was deemed "totally unacceptable" by Witkoff, who called for the group to accept the framework proposal as the basis for proximity talks.
  • Israeli officials have condemned Hamas's "intransigence" and vowed to continue working towards returning its hostages and defeating the group.
  • The Israeli Defense Forces have killed Mohammed Sinwar, the brother of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, and the latest chief commander of Hamas's military wing.
  • The Israeli Defense Ministry unit, COGAT, has announced that 579 trucks carrying humanitarian aid have crossed into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing since aid restrictions were relaxed in April.

Statistics:

  • 579 trucks have carried humanitarian aid across the Kerem Shalom crossing since aid restrictions were relaxed in April.
  • 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 bodies are being offered for exchange by Hamas.
  • 18 Palestinian prisoners are to be swapped for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners.
  • 60-day ceasefire in Gaza is being proposed by the US as part of the ceasefire proposal.

Sources:

  • Hamas statement
  • Statement from Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump's special envoy
  • Israeli Prime Minister's Office statement
  • The Washington Post
  • The Israeli Defense Forces statement
  • COGAT statement