Hamas has agreed to a proposed ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, following negotiations with Egypt and Qatar. The group’s chief, Khalil al-Hayya, said on Saturday that they had accepted a proposal for a temporary halt to fighting, including the release of Israeli hostages.
The agreement is part of a three-phase deal aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire. The first phase, which began in January, involved a reduction in violence and the release of some hostages. The second phase focuses on the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
However, Israel’s involvement in the talks has been disputed by Hamas, with the group insisting that any proposals must allow for the launch of the second phase. The Israeli government has stated that Hamas should not have a role in post-war arrangements.
Despite the agreement, violence continues to escalate, with at least 20 Palestinians killed in military strikes on Saturday. The conflict began in October 2023, following a series of attacks by Hamas-led gunmen on southern Israel, resulting in over 50,000 Palestinian deaths and thousands more injured.
The United States has called for Hamas to disarm, but the group’s chief said their arsenal would remain unchanged as long as the Israeli occupation exists. The situation remains tense, with ongoing military operations in Gaza.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/hamas-agrees-ceasefire-proposal-received-193508109.html