Hamas has formally responded to a recent U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal by reiterating demands for a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and uninterrupted humanitarian aid access for civilians in the war-torn enclave.
According to Euronews, these conditions were not included in the original draft proposal presented by the United States, which has already received tentative approval from Israeli officials.
As part of its counterproposal, Hamas has reportedly agreed to release 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 deceased captives, in exchange for 125 Palestinian prisoners and the release of 1,111 detained Gaza residents.
U.S. Proposal vs Hamas Counteroffer
The original U.S. proposal called for a temporary 60-day ceasefire, during which several of the 58 remaining hostages in Gaza would be freed in exchange for Palestinian detainees and urgently needed humanitarian assistance.
Hamas, however, insists that a permanent end to hostilities is non-negotiable, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for long-term political solutions, not short-term pauses in fighting.
Despite earlier reports suggesting rejection, Hamas officials have denied dismissing the U.S. offer outright, indicating that negotiations remain ongoing through Egyptian mediators and other international channels.
