For its part, Hamas has welcomed the ceasefire proposal with guarded optimism. The United States pushed for this initiative in an effort to address the deeply troubling and continuing humanitarian situation in Gaza. Tunisia’s proposal, for instance, recommends a 60-day truce. Former President Donald Trump will give his full approval, as will a phased release of Israeli captives and a pledge to boost humanitarian assistance to the besieged enclave. This development comes in the wake of escalating violence and significant casualties since the beginning of hostilities on October 7, 2023.
There are very good things in the ceasefire proposal. It demands the release of 10 living and 18 deceased Israeli captives from an agreed-upon list, with the first releases occurring on certain days over the course of the weeklong truce. Among other things, Israel will have the power to decide if all of the deal’s conditions are met.
Details of the Proposed Truce
Under the proposal, Hamas would begin its compliance immediately. During the first day of the truce, they will free eight live captives. After that, more releases would occur on day seven, 30, 50, and 60. Fostering trust between parties This new, more structured process is designed to create confidence between the parties sharing the data.
The op agreement adds a ten-hour daily suspension of military and surveillance flights over Gaza. This pause will allow some much-needed relief to settle over the troubled area. On days when captives are exchanged, this pause will be lengthened to twelve hours. This provision highlights an important recognition of the need for better access and humanitarian assistance in Gaza, which is a long overdue priority.
When Hamas accepts these terms, humanitarian aid will begin to flow into Gaza immediately. This support will meet the levels set out in a prior treaty from January 2025. This provision is a critical acknowledgment of the urgent needs of civilians previously bearing the brunt of the current war.
Negotiations for a Permanent Ceasefire
Formal negotiations for a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire will begin on the first day of the truce. Experienced mediators will guide these crucial conversations. These conversations are addressing a number of key questions. These terms include a full swap of Israeli captives for Palestinian prisoners, the immediate exit of Israeli forces, future security arrangements, and Gaza reconstruction efforts following the conflict.
Israel has stated that they expect written assurances from Trump. They need to protect the right to return to military action if their main demands go ignored. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for the disarmament of Hamas and expulsion of its leadership. He argues these terms are a prerequisite for any lasting peace deal.
“We hope it’s going to happen. And we’re looking forward to it happening sometime next week. We want to get the hostages out.” – Donald Trump
Ongoing Violence and Humanitarian Crisis
This ceasefire proposal comes at a time of extreme escalation in violence. Both sides continue to feel devastating losses as a result. Since October 7, Israeli military operations have killed over 57,268 Palestinians and injured over 130,000. By comparison, over 6,000 Palestinian lives have been lost since Israel last kept its truce.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is catastrophic—civilian casualties are escalating rapidly. Today, hundreds of thousands of residents have seen their lives upended, facing rampant shortages of food, medical supplies, and essential daily needs. Perhaps the proposed ceasefire and subsequent negotiations will provide a positive sign amid this pandemonium.
A spokesperson for Hamas agreed that the proposal was a positive step, but dampened hopes of its full execution.
“But at least it’s a first step.” – Hani Mahmoud
