In renewed efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a new proposal reportedly outlines a monthlong truce in exchange for the release of 11-14 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. According to sources from Ynet, the proposal was presented by Mossad chief David Barnea to Qatari intermediaries following his return from Doha.

The suggested agreement would include the release of female and elderly hostages while reciprocally freeing Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israel. Channel 12 reported that the framework may have originally been put forward by Qatar, underscoring its role as a mediator in the negotiations.

This comes on the heels of an earlier ceasefire plan from Egypt, which proposed a two-day truce in exchange for the release of four hostages.

A senior Hamas official, Sami Abu Zuhri, confirmed that Hamas is actively considering these latest proposals. However, he stressed that the organization remains firm in its demands, calling for an end to Israeli presence in Gaza and conditions that would lift the blockade, facilitate unrestricted humanitarian aid, and initiate comprehensive reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Additionally, Abu Zuhri reiterated that any agreement must include a large-scale swap of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners in Israel.

Adding to the diplomatic urgency, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, stated that Doha is committed to facilitating negotiations “until the last minute” before the upcoming U.S. presidential election on November 5. Al-Ansari also affirmed that Qatar anticipates continued U.S. involvement regardless of the election outcome, highlighting the stability and investment of U.S. institutions in securing a peaceful resolution.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)