Senior Hamas leader Abdul Rahman Shadid announced on Friday that the movement has submitted a comprehensive peace proposal to mediators, aiming to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza with a five-year truce.
In a press statement, Shadid outlined the key points of the proposal, which was presented on April 17. The plan calls for a permanent cessation of Israeli military operations, a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the lifting of the blockade, the entry of humanitarian aid, and the reconstruction of the enclave.
A significant element of the proposal involves an agreement for the release of all hostages in Gaza in exchange for an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners. The plan also includes a ceasefire lasting five years, supported by regional and international guarantees, and the formation of an independent committee to manage Gaza during the transitional period.
Shadid explained that the proposed governing committee would consist of independent technocrats with full authority and responsibilities, ensuring security and essential services for Palestinians without direct political interference.
However, Shadid expressed disappointment over the Israeli government’s response, stating that it has “rejected the movement’s vision, insisted on dividing the issues, and refused to commit to ending the war, adhering to policies of killing, starvation, and destruction, even at the expense of the lives of its army prisoners held in Gaza.”
Earlier this week, Israel’s state-owned broadcaster Kan reported that the Israeli government had officially rejected the five-year truce proposal from Hamas, which included the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
On Thursday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that defeating Hamas remains Israel’s main objective, taking precedence over negotiations for the release of hostages.
The situation in Gaza has escalated in recent weeks. Israel halted the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza on March 2, following the expiration of the first phase of a January ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Due to a lack of consensus between the parties, Israel resumed military operations in the enclave on March 18.
According to Gaza-based health authorities, as of Thursday, at least 2,326 Palestinians have been killed and 6,050 others injured since Israel renewed its intensive strikes.
