Key Facts
• August 18: Hamas announced acceptance of a new ceasefire proposal.
• Proposal includes a 60-day halt in fighting and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
• Mediators Egypt and Qatar presented the proposal on August 17.
• Terms include exchange of 10 Israeli hostages for Palestinian detainees.
• Partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from northern and eastern Gaza proposed.
• Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich opposed the ceasefire, urging continued fighting.
• Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has not yet expressed agreement or opposition.
Summary
Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar, which includes a 60-day halt in fighting, humanitarian aid to Gaza, and a prisoner exchange involving 10 Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees. The proposal also suggests partial Israeli troop withdrawal from northern and eastern Gaza. While Hamas has accepted the terms, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet taken a stance, and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has expressed opposition, advocating for continued military action. The situation remains tense as Israel’s response will determine the next steps in the conflict.
