US Expresses Hope That Hamas Will Accept Israel’s New Ceasefire Proposal in Gaza War

The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, is hopeful that Hamas will accept what he has described as Israel’s “extraordinarily generous” offer for a Gaza truce and hostage release deal. This comes as a Hamas delegation discusses the new proposal with mediators from Egypt and Qatar.

The proposal includes a 40-day truce in exchange for the release of hostages and the possibility of displaced families returning to northern Gaza. It also addresses Hamas’s demand for a permanent ceasefire.

The Hamas delegation has left Cairo and will return with a written response to the proposal. The Israeli government is facing pressure from global allies and the families of the hostages to agree to a deal.

Israel launched a military campaign in response to Hamas’s cross-border attack on southern Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages. Mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the US have been working to secure a ceasefire and the release of remaining hostages.

Hamas has rejected previous proposals but is now studying the new offer from Israel. The atmosphere is described as positive, with hopes for a lasting truce.

Meanwhile, rising temperatures in Rafah, where half of Gaza’s population is sheltering, are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. Children are suffering in the intense heat without adequate resources.

Efforts are being made to prevent a major operation in Rafah, with the US and other parties working to protect civilians and secure a peaceful resolution. The situation remains tense as negotiations continue.