Hamas has proposed a two-month ceasefire in exchange for releasing half of the remaining living hostages and allowing family members of Hamas leadership to leave Gaza, according to Palestinian sources. The group also wants the US to ensure negotiations on ending the war will begin during the temporary ceasefire.
The proposal comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed his negotiating team to “exhaust all efforts” to release the hostages, hours after a stalemate in negotiations that had lasted for three days. Hamas has expressed willingness to give up its weapons if it relinquishes control of Gaza.
The US is expected to play a key role in ensuring Israel’s cooperation during the proposed ceasefire, as Netanyahu may not be willing to abide by any agreement without American guarantees. The proposal is seen as an attempt by Hamas to pressure Israel into meeting its demands and securing the release of its hostages.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-854350