Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has proposed a plan aimed at reducing violence in Gaza, calling for a brief truce, a prisoner exchange and renewed peace talks between Hamas and Israel. The proposal, announced by al-Sisi, includes releasing four Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
He suggested that broader cease-fire discussions could follow within 10 days of a temporary truce.
Hamas and Israel have not yet responded officially. However, sources close to the mediation effort indicate that while Hamas may consider the offer, it remains focused on securing an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza.
The United Nations has described conditions in northern Gaza as “unbearable.” Officials pointed to severe shortages of food, medical supplies and essential services.
An Israeli airstrike on a refugee camp in Jabalia killed 20 people, according to officials. A different strike killed nine sheltering in a school.
According to Gaza’s Hamas-run Health Ministry, the ongoing conflict has led to over 43,000 Palestinian deaths. About 90% of Gaza’s population has been displaced.
Egypt has been spearheading mediation efforts, with support from the United States and Qatar. The success of the proposal hinges on responses from both Israel and Hamas, as negotiators aim to establish a temporary cease-fire lasting up to a month, setting the stage for more permanent peace discussions.