A Saudi news outlet has disclosed alleged details of a US-brokered ceasefire proposal for Gaza, citing a Hamas source. The plan reportedly includes a phased Israeli military reduction in key areas and provisions for prisoner exchanges, though the information's reliability remains uncertain.
According to Al-Sharq, central to the proposal is a scaling back of Israeli military presence along the Egypt-Gaza border, though not a complete withdrawal. The plan allegedly grants Israel the authority to veto up to 100 names on Hamas' list of security prisoners slated for release. It also includes provisions for deporting numerous security prisoners to foreign countries.
The Hamas source stated, "The proposal outlines that a permanent ceasefire will be on the agenda for discussion between the parties during the second phase. Should Hamas reject Israeli demands, military operations would resume." The source added that the US suggested deferring negotiations on Gaza's reconstruction and the easing of restrictions until after the initial phase of the agreement is implemented.
The Hamas official claimed, "The American proposal, presented as a compromise to bridge existing gaps, stands in stark contrast to the draft agreed upon on July 2." Al-Sharq reported that the US mediator is scheduled to meet with Qatari and Egyptian intermediaries in the coming days to further discuss the proposal.
The report indicated that Hamas has rejected these initial proposals and is awaiting the presentation of a final version before declaring its official stance.
As of Aug. 18, 115 Israeli hostages remain held captive by the Hamas terror organization in Gaza. Of those, 41 have been declared dead, having either been murdered on Oct. 7 or while in captivity.
