On Saturday, Hamas announced that it has accepted a ceasefire proposal for the Gaza Strip, aiming to halt the ongoing conflict. The proposal was received two days earlier through mediators.
“In our commitment to our people and families, we have engaged with all proposals responsibly and positively, aiming to end the war,” Khalil Al-Hayya, head of Hamas in Gaza, stated. “We responded positively and approved it. We hope the occupation does not obstruct it or undermine the mediators’ efforts.”
Despite accepting the truce, Hamas emphasized its commitment to armed resistance, calling it a “red line.” The group declared that “the weapon of resistance” would remain until the “Israeli occupation” ends. “We will never accept humiliation or disgrace for our people. There will be no displacement or deportation,” the statement added.
Hamas also mentioned that, along with other factions, it has provided Egypt with a list of independent professionals and experts to help form a committee to manage Gaza.
Meanwhile, Israel confirmed it received the ceasefire proposal and has sent a counteroffer to the mediators. Reports indicate that disagreements persist, particularly over the number of hostages to be released. The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office stated that the counteroffer was “fully coordinated with the United States.”
According to Israel’s Kan TV News, the proposal includes Hamas releasing some of the 59 hostages it holds in exchange for a 50-day ceasefire in Gaza.
Despite these developments, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced new ground operations in the Al Janina area of Rafah, southern Gaza, aiming to expand the security zone. The IDF reported dismantling “Hamas terrorist infrastructures” during these operations.
The IDF and Israel’s Shin Bet security agency also conducted airstrikes targeting Hamas and Islamic Jihad positions across Gaza. They reported “killing dozens of militants,” including individuals responsible for launching mortars toward Israeli territory.
Israeli forces resumed strikes in Gaza on March 18, effectively ending a ceasefire agreement with Hamas that had been in place since January 19.
