Israel's Updated Ceasefire Proposal with Hamas

Israel has presented an updated version of a ceasefire proposal to Hamas, mediated through Egyptian intermediaries. The proposal, which is aimed at securing the release of the remaining 100 hostages held by Hamas, incorporates several key changes and builds on previous ceasefire efforts. Israeli officials indicated that the updated proposal reflects regional shifts, including the elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and the ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

"The Egyptian and Qatari mediators believe Hamas might now agree to a hostage-release and ceasefire deal, even if it is partial," said one Israeli official. The proposal suggests that during a ceasefire lasting between 42 and 60 days, Hamas would release female hostages, men over the age of 50, and those in critical medical condition. The initial demands for the release of 33 hostages have been adjusted, as some may no longer be alive.

Ongoing Negotiations and Palestinian Prisoner Exchange

The updated deal also includes Israel’s readiness to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences, in exchange for the hostages. Israel is now waiting for a response from Hamas through Egyptian mediators. An Israeli official stated, "We will know within a few days whether Hamas is willing to negotiate under the terms presented."

If Hamas agrees, an Israeli delegation will travel to Cairo to finalize details like the duration of the ceasefire and the number of hostages and prisoners to be released.

International Support for Hostage Deal

Meanwhile, in Washington, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, expressed support for the deal, emphasizing its urgency. "Trump wants this deal to move forward quickly, before he takes office," said a Trump advisor. This international backing highlights the high stakes in resolving the hostage crisis.

One of the hostages, Itai Svirsky, was tragically found dead after being kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, during a raid on Kibbutz Be'eri. His body was recently recovered in a joint operation by the IDF and Shin Bet. This news brings some closure to his family, but it also underscores the ongoing suffering of the families still waiting for the return of the remaining hostages.

In a post shared on social media, Noa Argamani, a fellow hostage who was released earlier, commemorated Svirsky, reflecting on the bond they shared during their captivity. "You were my friend; you were my big brother in this dark place," she wrote.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged the immediate release of all remaining hostages, many of whom are in critical health or grave danger. "The time has come to bring all 100 hostages home," the forum stated, as families continue to await the return of their loved ones after over a year of captivity.