Israel has downplayed the likelihood of a ceasefire in Gaza after Hamas accepted a proposal from mediators, sparking fears among residents in the city of Rafah. Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh informed mediators of the acceptance of the ceasefire proposal, while the Israeli military is considering proposals to release hostages held in Gaza.
An Israeli official suggested that Hamas accepted a watered-down version of the Egyptian offer, raising doubts about the effectiveness of the proposed truce. However, the U.S. State Department remains optimistic, saying that an agreement is “absolutely achievable” in the ongoing conflict.
If implemented, the ceasefire would be the first pause in fighting since November, providing much-needed relief to the residents of Gaza. A Hamas official stated that the proposal meets their demands, including efforts for reconstruction in Gaza, and is divided into three phases, each lasting six weeks.
Meanwhile, Israel has ordered the evacuation of parts of Rafah as Israeli bombardment continues in the region. Israeli planes have targeted 10 houses in Rafah, resulting in the deaths of 20 people, leading Palestinian families to move to an “expanded humanitarian zone” located 20 km away.
Families were seen trundling away with their belongings, unsure of where to go next amidst the ongoing violence. Despite the uncertainty, both sides have expressed a willingness to negotiate and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
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