Hamas gives "positive response" to US ceasefire proposal… Rising expectations for Gaza Strip ceasefire

Korea Economic Daily

Summary

Hamas has responded positively to the Gaza Strip ceasefire proposal from the United States, raising expectations for a ceasefire.
Israel also agreed to the US proposal, increasing the likelihood that both sides will resume negotiations.
The sustainability of the ceasefire as well as issues regarding hostage exchanges and withdrawal timetables are expected to be key points of contention.

The Palestinian militant group Hamas expressed a positive stance regarding the US-proposed Gaza Strip ceasefire plan, raising hopes for a successful ceasefire.

In a statement released on the 4th (local time), Hamas said, "We have completed internal consultations and discussions among Palestinian factions regarding the latest proposals from mediating countries to stop attacks on our people in the Gaza Strip," and added that "we are fully prepared to immediately begin negotiations on ways to implement this (mediation plan) framework."

This announcement comes about 100 days after Israel resumed its military operations following the breakdown of the ceasefire extension in March. Israel had also previously agreed to the US proposal, increasing the likelihood that both sides will re-enter ceasefire talks.

Reuters reported that the Israeli government is reviewing the specifics of Hamas's reply. Citing sources familiar with the negotiations, CNN noted that both parties are expected to enter "proximity talks" soon.

This format involves delegations from both sides staying in the same location, allowing the mediating country to rapidly deliver messages. According to sources, "The timetable for Israeli withdrawal from Gaza during the ceasefire period will be a key point of contention."

Bishara Bahbah, an American businessman involved in negotiations over the release of hostages with Hamas, said, "Hamas has submitted amendments it deemed necessary," adding, "I think these amendments will not prevent reaching a ceasefire agreement within the next week."

The current proposal, pushed by US President Donald Trump, calls for a 60-day suspension of hostilities in the Gaza Strip, during which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and hand over the bodies of 18 deceased hostages to Israel, in exchange for Israel releasing a certain number of Palestinian prisoners.

However, since Hamas is demanding a "permanent ceasefire" before releasing all hostages, and Israel maintains that dismantling Hamas must come first, the sustainability of the ceasefire is expected to be the biggest challenge in these negotiations.

Reporter Hyunbo Shin, Hankyung.com greaterfool@hankyung.com