Qatar Urges Hamas to Embrace US Ceasefire Proposal: Key Details Unveiled

Qatar’s Prime Minister recently urged Hamas to take a positive stance on a new ceasefire proposal from the US. This meeting took place in Doha with Khalil Al-Hayya, Hamas’ chief negotiator.

Hamas confirmed that it received the US proposal, which includes various ideas aimed at achieving a comprehensive ceasefire. Meanwhile, Israel is reportedly giving serious thought to this plan.

According to an Israeli official, the proposal suggests that all 48 hostages should be released on the first day of the ceasefire. In return, Israel would release thousands of Palestinian prisoners. Both sides would enter immediate negotiations to work toward ending the war, with US intervention ensuring that hostilities remain paused as discussions proceed.

These next few days are seen as critical for moving the proposal forward. Following the announcement, a statement from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum praised the US efforts, calling it a significant breakthrough. They urged the Israeli government to fully support this agreement and stand behind President Trump until every hostage is safely returned, whether alive for rehabilitation or deceased for a dignified burial.

Interestingly, weeks before this proposal surfaced, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu had been silent on a ceasefire suggested by Qatar and Egypt. This earlier proposal sought a 60-day ceasefire in exchange for 10 living hostages and 18 deceased ones, mirroring a deal Netanyahu had previously approved.

After many months, Netanyahu shifted his stance, now insisting on a comprehensive deal that meets his maximalist demands. Hamas, on the other hand, is emphasizing the need for a proposal that not only secures the release of hostages but also ends the ongoing conflict.

Basem Naim, a member of Hamas’ political bureau, expressed skepticism about the recent US initiative. He suggested that it serves more to provoke Hamas’ rejection rather than bring about peace. He stated, “What is required is a ‘humiliating peace’ or the continuation of the war.” Naim underscored that while Hamas is interested in an agreement that concludes the war, they will not accept a deal they view as dishonorable.

This situation mirrors historical patterns in Middle Eastern negotiations, where both sides often struggle to find common ground. These discussions are crucial, not only for those directly involved but also for regional stability. The focus now shifts to how quickly both sides can reach a consensus that addresses the pressing humanitarian needs of the hostages and the broader quest for peace.

For more insights on ceasefire proposals and historical contexts within the Middle East, you can read reports from sources like [BBC](https://www.bbc.com/) and [Al Jazeera](https://www.aljazeera.com/) for a wider view of the ongoing situation.

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