Israel has accepted a new ceasefire proposal brokered by the United States, signaling a potential pause in the war with Hamas.
The White House confirmed on Thursday that Israel had endorsed the draft plan, which aims to halt hostilities in Gaza and secure the release of remaining hostages. Hamas, however, responded cautiously, saying it would examine the proposal further before issuing a formal reply.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Israel had “backed and supported” the plan developed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The proposal comes amid growing international pressure to end the war, which has devastated Gaza and left thousands dead.
Hamas officials offered a lukewarm initial reaction. Bassem Naim, a senior Hamas figure, said the plan “does not respond to any of our people’s demands,” including a full ceasefire and an end to the blockade. He accused Israel of seeking to prolong occupation and suffering but acknowledged the group would study the proposal “with all national responsibility.”
According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the plan includes a 60-day halt in fighting during which Hamas would release 10 living hostages and several bodies in exchange for over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. In return, Israeli forces would withdraw to positions they held during a previous ceasefire that ended in March. The deal also includes daily delivery of humanitarian aid into Gaza, where famine and shortages have worsened under a near-total blockade.
The proposal includes assurances that Israel will not resume military operations once the hostages are released. It also sets a framework for future negotiations toward a more lasting truce.