Jerusalem, Israel — Israel has agreed to a new ceasefire proposal put forth by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff amid ongoing tensions with Hamas. This announcement follows discussions that aim to bring a temporary halt to the conflict, which has persisted for weeks.

The framework of the proposal, which details an exchange of hostages, has been brought to light. It suggests that Hamas would return 10 living Israeli captives along with 18 deceased individuals—conditional on Israel releasing 125 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and an additional 1,111 detainees held since the beginning of the escalation. Negotiations for a lasting ceasefire are set to start during the first day of a proposed 60-day truce.

However, leadership within Hamas has voiced skepticism about the proposal, asserting that it does not address pivotal demands, including an immediate end to hostilities and humanitarian crises affecting their population. Bassem Naim, a senior member of Hamas, expressed on social media that although the group’s leadership is deliberating a response, the situation they face is dire.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly informed families of the hostages about the acceptance of the U.S. proposal, underscoring the urgency of the negotiations. In a press briefing, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the ceasefire proposition has received backing from Israel and that talks are still in progress.

Under the proposed framework, the release of hostages and prisoners would occur in two phases: the initial half would be freed on the first day of the ceasefire, with the remainder released a week later. If no permanent ceasefire is established within the 60-day period, the possibility for an extension remains, contingent upon both parties negotiating in earnest.

Yet, the terms do not explicitly assure an end to the conflict, a significant demand from Hamas negotiators. The proposal emphasizes ongoing U.S. commitment to facilitate negotiations until a comprehensive agreement is achieved.

Humanitarian aid, which has faced severe restrictions amid an extended blockade, would begin entering Gaza immediately upon the ceasefire’s initiation, according to the framework. The aid is expected to move through established channels, including assistance from the United Nations, although it has been noted that all parties must agree to proceed for this support to commence.

A senior Hamas official stated that the group remains open to the proposed terms but is demanding assurances that hostilities will not resume once the temporary ceasefire ends. This comes after assessments that any agreement must prioritize the people’s needs and rights.

On the Israeli side, political leaders are divided over the ceasefire proposal. While some, like opposition leader Yair Lapid, advocate for immediate acceptance to bring the families’ loved ones home, others, particularly from the ruling coalition, express strong reservations about concessions to Hamas.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing to navigate the complex landscape of negotiations. UN officials have expressed hope for a constructive resolution, aiming to break the cycle of violence that has engulfed the region. There is a call for a renewed focus on peace and stability for both Israelis and Palestinians as they remain caught amid escalating tensions and humanitarian needs.