Hamas announced on Monday its acceptance of a proposal for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, sparking scenes of jubilation among supporters.
Meanwhile, Israel reissued an evacuation order for Palestinians in Rafah, signaling a potential imminent invasion of the city.
Despite Hamas’s announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office expressed reservations, stating that the proposal did not meet Israel’s essential demands.
Nevertheless, Israel agreed to send negotiators for further discussions in an attempt to reach a resolution. The United States, a close ally of Israel, stated that it was “reviewing” Hamas’s response.
However, even as diplomatic efforts were underway, Israeli warplanes carried out intense airstrikes on Rafah, according to reports from a journalist working with AFP.
Hamas member Khalil al-Hayya revealed details of the proposed truce, which includes a three-phased plan involving a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the return of displaced Palestinians, and a hostage-prisoner exchange, aiming for a lasting ceasefire.
Meanwhile, Israel’s military reiterated its call for residents of east Rafah to evacuate, citing preparations for a ground operation in the southern Gaza city.
Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari reported that over 50 terror targets were targeted in the Rafah area on Monday alone.
In response to Hamas’s acceptance of the proposal, a statement from the group indicated that its leader, Ismail Haniyeh, had informed mediators Qatar and Egypt of their approval.
The call for evacuation drew condemnation from the international community, with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urging both Israel and Hamas to make additional efforts to secure a ceasefire.
Despite diplomatic pressure, tensions remained high, with Netanyahu reaffirming Israel’s determination to proceed with the offensive in Rafah to pressure Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages.
The situation further escalated following reports of a rocket attack claimed by Hamas’s armed wing, resulting in the deaths of four Israeli soldiers and stalling negotiations in Cairo over the weekend.
Netanyahu’s defiance of international concerns underscores the challenges in reaching a lasting peace agreement amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
