Israel and Hamas are evaluating a new US proposal for a ceasefire in the ongoing war in Gaza, as well as the potential release of hostages held by the terror group, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday. However, mediators have cautioned that the two sides are still far from reaching an agreement.
The plan, presented by CIA Director William Burns in Cairo, calls for a six-week truce in Gaza, where Israel has been waging an intense anti-terrorism campaign following Hamas' brutal onslaught on Oct. 7, in which 1,2000 Israelis were killed and over 200 taken hostage.
During this pause in fighting, Hamas would release 40 of the 133 hostages it is holding, in exchange for Israel freeing 900 Palestinian prisoners, including 100 serving long sentences on terrorism charges.
Officials involved in the negotiations stated on Tuesday that Hamas and Israel still disagree on key aspects of a potential deal. Points of contention include the conditions for displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza, the identities of prisoners to be released, and whether the initial six-week ceasefire could become permanent.
An official familiar with the talks expressed pessimism about the prospects, saying "To be honest we are not optimistic." Hamas has informed mediators that it needs time to consider the proposal, while Israel's Security Cabinet was expected to discuss it on Tuesday.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan stated that while Israel has taken "some steps forward," Hamas' public statements have been "less than encouraging." He urged Qatar's prime minister to extract a response from Hamas, but said the group has not answered yet.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the government aims for the release of all hostages in Gaza, but also wants to achieve "total victory" over Hamas, suggesting plans for an assault on Rafah, vital to destroy Hamas and secure the release of the hostages.
