A Fresh Ceasefire Proposal Amid Heavy Fighting in Gaza

Hamas has proposed a new deal to pause the war in Gaza. They say they’re ready to release nine Israeli hostages if Israel agrees to a 60-day truce, lets in 400 aid trucks daily, and allows medical evacuations. In return, they also want Palestinian prisoners to be freed, BBC reported.

This proposal came just hours after Israel launched a major new military operation called “Operation Gideon’s Chariots.” Since Thursday, airstrikes have killed around 300 people, with homes, refugee camps, and hospitals being hit. The situation in Gaza is growing more dangerous by the day.

Talks about the new ceasefire are happening in Doha, Qatar, with help from the US and Qatari officials. However, Israel hasn’t officially responded yet. They’ve said they won’t fully pull out of Gaza or stop the war until all hostages are released and Hamas is no longer a threat.

People in Gaza are suffering greatly. Food is extremely limited due to Israel’s blockade, which has lasted over 10 weeks. Aid groups warn that famine is close, especially for the 2.1 million people living in Gaza. Many children are severely undernourished, and hospitals are overwhelmed.

Doctors and humanitarian workers report that children are not only starving, but also too weak to recover from injuries. Some have lost teeth, and many can’t heal properly because of extreme hunger.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has promised to expand military operations, take over parts of Gaza and defeat Hamas. 

World leaders, including the UN Secretary-General and leaders from Spain, Italy and Germany, have condemned the new Israeli offensive. They’re urging both sides to stop the violence and reach a long-term ceasefire.

Despite the hope for peace talks, the situation on the ground remains tense and tragic.