Gaza City, Gaza Strip — Hamas has indicated a readiness to negotiate a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, proposing a one-time release of all hostages in exchange for a five-year halt to hostilities. An official from the group disclosed this development on Saturday as a delegation, led by Khalil al-Hayya, departed for Cairo to engage in talks with Egyptian representatives.

During these negotiations, Taher al-Nono, a senior Hamas figure, emphasized that while the organization is open to discussions about a lasting truce, its arsenal is non-negotiable. Reports suggest that some inside Hamas are reconsidering the group’s stance on disarmament, potentially signaling a shift within its senior leadership in response to increasing pressure from the local population.

The drive for a truce appears motivated by the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Sources close to Hamas indicate that commanders are feeling intense pressure to act as foreign assistance for reconstruction remains elusive. Neighboring Arab nations, they contend, are unlikely to offer support while Hamas continues to function as an armed entity.

Three Hamas officials confirmed that the possibility of surrendering weapons to a future governing body in Gaza could be on the table, although not all members of the organization share this view. The officials indicated that the final terms of any deal might include the potential expulsion of key figures, including Muhammad Sinwar and Izz ad-Din Haddad.

Al-Nono’s statements mark a notable shift, as he expressed openness to a longer-term ceasefire, stating that Hamas is willing to entertain “serious proposals to end the war.” However, he reaffirmed that the group will not concede its arms, which they view as essential in resisting what they refer to as occupation.

Hamas’s founding charter calls for Israel’s destruction, yet indications of a willingness for a long-term ceasefire have surfaced amidst the ongoing conflict. In response to these developments, Israeli officials have downplayed the likelihood of a breakthrough. Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel stated that Hamas must first release the 59 hostages still in captivity and lay down its weapons for any negotiation to succeed.

The hostage situation has become a focal point of the conflict, following Hamas’s incursion into southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and the abduction of more than 250 people. Since then, negotiators have sought a resolution to secure the release of these hostages while addressing the escalating crisis in Gaza.

The violence intensified once more after a ceasefire collapsed in January, with Israeli forces resuming their offensive in March, pledging to maintain pressure until all hostages are freed. Reports indicate that approximately 24 of the captives are believed to still be alive, amplifying the urgency of the negotiations.