Hamas Responds to US-Backed Ceasefire Proposal Amid Conflict with Israel

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The United States has proposed new language to bridge gaps in discussions for a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas, a senior US administration official said Friday. The three-phase Israeli proposal, outlined by US President Joe Biden, sets out conditions intended to lead to the eventual release of all remaining hostages being held by Hamas, in return for a permanent ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. CNN contributor Barak Ravid reported that the US is pressuring Egypt and Qatar to press Hamas to accept the change in language. The proposed US language aims to bridge a current disagreement triggered by Hamas’ demands for negotiations for the second phase only focus on the number and identity of Palestinian prisoners released from Israeli jails. Hamas spokesman Osama Hamdan stated that the most recent proposal received fell short of meeting its demands for a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel has not publicly accepted the plan, and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent comments have shown a lack of commitment to a total ceasefire. The conflict has resulted in ongoing fighting in Gaza City, with casualties continuing to rise. The situation remains tense as mediators evaluate Hamas’ response to the proposal and the international community pushes for a resolution to the conflict.