US intensifies efforts for ‘exceptionally generous’ Gaza ceasefire agreement

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is pushing for Hamas to accept Israel’s latest proposal for a Gaza truce and hostage release deal, calling it “extraordinarily generous.” Blinken made the statement in Saudi Arabia ahead of his upcoming visit to Israel, marking his seventh trip to the Middle East since the Israel-Hamas war began in October.

The terms of the draft deal have not been disclosed, but Israeli media reports suggest that Israel has softened its stance, now seeking the release of 33 hostages in exchange for around 900 Palestinian prisoners. Hamas, which is believed to be holding approximately 100 Israelis in Gaza, is expected to provide a written response to the truce proposal.

Despite previous offers negotiated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, Hamas has been hesitant to agree to a ceasefire deal. Blinken emphasized the importance of improving conditions in Gaza, even without a formal agreement in place.

The ongoing negotiations have been complicated by Hamas’s demands for assurances that a potential release of all hostages would lead to a complete end to Israel’s military operations in Gaza and a withdrawal of Israeli troops from the area. Israel, on the other hand, has only offered a temporary pause in hostilities, with plans to resume its offensive once the ceasefire ends.

As Blinken continues his diplomatic efforts in the region, the question remains whether Hamas will ultimately agree to the terms of the proposed truce, or if the conflict will escalate further.