Hamas Receives Israel's Response to Ceasefire Proposal Amid Ongoing Violence in Gaza

Hamas has received Israel's official response to its latest ceasefire proposal, according to a statement by the group's deputy Gaza chief. The negotiations between Hamas and Israel remain deadlocked, with Hamas firm in its demand that any agreement must include an end to the conflict. An Egyptian delegation visited Israel on Friday to discuss ways to resume talks and secure the release of the remaining hostages taken by Hamas during an attack on Israeli towns on October 7.

Israel had no new proposals but was willing to consider a limited truce in which 33 hostages would be released, instead of the 40 previously under discussion. "Israel told Egyptian mediators it was ready to give hostage negotiations one last chance before potentially moving forward with an offensive of Rafah," a senior Israeli official said. Meanwhile, an Israeli airstrike on a house in Rafah, Gaza, has killed at least five people and wounded others.

The U.S. and 17 other countries have urged Hamas to free all of its hostages, but Hamas has vowed not to give in. "Hamas remains committed to achieving an agreement with Israel to end the war on Gaza, but only if its conditions including a lasting ceasefire are met," the group said in a statement. The White House national security adviser said he saw fresh momentum in discussions to end the war and return the remaining hostages.

Why this matters: The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, with aid agencies warning of a potential famine in the north and the displaced population in Rafah facing an uncertain future. The international community is urging both sides to reach a ceasefire agreement to prevent further escalation and address the situation in the enclave.

As the talks continue, the death toll in Gaza rises, and hostage families in Israel grow desperate. The UN has warned of the massive debris and unexploded ordnance that will need to be cleared once the Israeli offensive is over, estimating 37 million tonnes of debris, which would take 14 years to clear. Egypt has taken an increasingly active role in the negotiations, concerned about a potential influx of Palestinian refugees from Gaza if the war continues.

Key Takeaways

• Hamas received Israel's response to ceasefire proposal, talks remain deadlocked.
• Israel willing to consider limited truce, but no new proposals; airstrike kills 5 in Gaza.
• US and allies urge Hamas to free hostages, but Hamas vows no concessions without ceasefire.
• Humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with potential famine and massive debris to clear.
• Egypt plays active role in negotiations, concerned about influx of Palestinian refugees.