Hamas has responded to a US-led proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, which Israeli officials have approved, but will seek amendments. The militant group’s response aims to achieve a permanent ceasefire, complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and unimpeded humanitarian aid.
Hamas said its revised proposal includes the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and the remains of 18 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. A senior Hamas official stated that while there are some amendments to certain points, including US guarantees and timing, these changes will be made.
The US envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, described Hamas’ response as “totally unacceptable” and said it would only take the talks backward. He emphasized that Hamas should accept the framework proposal as the basis for proximity talks, which could begin immediately this week.
Meanwhile, a UN Food Program convoy was stopped by hungry Palestinians in the southern city of Khan Younis, with most people carrying bags of flour on their backs or heads. The UN says it is struggling to deliver aid due to fighting and has been unable to get enough trucks into Gaza.
The Israeli military continues its campaign across Gaza, with at least 60 people killed by Israeli strikes in the last 24 hours. The war began when Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing over 1,200 civilians and taking 250 hostages.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/united-nations-world-food-program-trucks-palestinians-hamas-gaza-ceasefire