Hamas backs Arab ceasefire proposal in Gaza: What happens next, and will Israel accept?

Dubai: Hamas says it has accepted an Arab-mediated ceasefire proposal for Gaza, raising hopes of a pause in nearly two years of fighting.

The plan, introduced by Egypt and Qatar, reportedly includes Israeli troop pullbacks and negotiations toward a lasting ceasefire.

The Palestinian death toll has now passed 62,000, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, with another 156,000 wounded.

Aid groups warn that Gaza is sliding into famine, with more than 260 people — including 112 children — dying from malnutrition-related causes. Israel denies blocking food but is accused by Amnesty International of waging a “deliberate campaign of starvation.”

Israel’s position has not changed. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists the war will not end until:

Netanyahu called Hamas’ acceptance of the deal proof that the group is “under massive pressure.” An Israeli official stressed that the government has not joined the new round of talks yet.

Of the 251 people abducted on October 7, 2023, around 50 are still in Gaza, and Israel believes only 20 may be alive. Hamas wants a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal before releasing them, while Israel demands their release first.

It’s uncertain. The Arab proposal is described as “nearly identical” to an earlier one Israel agreed to, but Netanyahu is doubling down on the military offensive, including plans to reoccupy Gaza City.

Mass protests in Israel demand the government prioritise hostage returns, but Netanyahu faces pressure from his right-wing allies to continue the war.

Washington has backed Israel’s demand to dismantle Hamas. US envoy Steve Witkoff has been invited to join the Cairo talks. President Donald Trump wrote that hostages will only return when Hamas is “confronted and destroyed,” casting doubt on negotiations.

Yes. Egypt and Qatar are pushing hard for a truce. The UN and human rights groups are warning of famine and calling for urgent action. A London-based “Gaza Tribunal” has urged the UN General Assembly to send a protective international force. But Israel rejects allegations of genocide and insists it allows aid into Gaza.