Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to negotiate a cease-fire deal with Gaza after Hamas accepted a proposal from regional mediators. The 60-day proposal, backed by Egypt and Qatar, would see both parties agree to withdraw their forces to a buffer zone of 800 meters into Gaza.
Under the plan, Israel would free around 1,700 prisoners, including those facing life sentences, in exchange for the release of 10 living hostages and the bodies of 18 deceased hostages. The proposal also includes humanitarian aid, with 600 trucks per day allowed to enter Gaza.
Netanyahu has faced growing pressure over the military campaign and humanitarian situation in Gaza, but it remains unclear how he will respond to this new offer. Some far-right members of his coalition have criticized the proposal as “moral folly,” while others have expressed support for a partial deal.
Israel will issue its response by Friday, and a permanent truce is expected to be determined during the 60-day period. The deal also includes a pathway to a comprehensive agreement to end the war.
The Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson described the proposal as “98 percent” similar to an earlier plan presented by the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, in June. However, Netanyahu has repeatedly demanded the release of all 50 hostages and has said that his goal is to eliminate Hamas entirely.
As the situation continues to unfold, international diplomacy remains a key factor in resolving the conflict.
Source: https://foreignpolicy.com/2025/08/19/israel-hamas-gaza-ceasefire-deal-hostage-humanitarian-aid/?tpcc=recirc_latest062921