In the ongoing efforts to mediate peace in the Gaza conflict, a US envoy has made his ninth visit to the region since the conflict erupted in October. This visit comes shortly after the US presented a revised proposal aimed at addressing longstanding issues between Israel and Hamas. While both the US and Israel have expressed cautious optimism regarding a potential agreement, Hamas has dismissed these suggestions as an “illusion.”
Recent discussions in Doha have highlighted significant disagreements, particularly regarding the future presence of Israeli troops in the Gaza Strip. Hamas demands a full withdrawal of Israeli forces, while Israeli sources suggest that alternative measures along the Gaza-Egypt border could be implemented as part of the initial phase of any agreement. The proposal reportedly includes maintaining a reduced Israeli military presence along the Philadelphi Corridor, a critical area on Gaza’s southern border.
The conflict, which began following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties. Over 1,200 Israelis were killed, and 251 individuals were taken hostage during the initial attack. Since then, more than 40,000 people have died in Gaza, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry.
In November, a temporary ceasefire was achieved, during which Hamas released 105 hostages in exchange for a week-long cessation of hostilities and the release of 240 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. Currently, Israel reports that 111 hostages are still in captivity, with 39 presumed deceased.
US President Joe Biden recently stated that negotiations are closer to a resolution than ever before, but previous rounds of talks have not yielded lasting results. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that while Israel is willing to be flexible on some issues, it will not compromise on key security concerns. He criticized Hamas for being “obstinate” and called for increased pressure on the militant group.
A senior Hamas official expressed frustration with the mediators’ proposals, labeling them as disappointing and reporting no real progress. The proposed deal, based on Israel’s plan from May, outlines a three-phase process: a six-week ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of all living hostages and a permanent end to hostilities, followed by a major reconstruction plan for Gaza and the return of deceased hostages’ remains.
Amid these diplomatic efforts, violence continues. On Sunday, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed at least 21 people, including six children, in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced that they had destroyed rocket launchers in Khan Younis, a city that has seen intense fighting, and that 20 Palestinians were killed in the process.