Egypt and Qatar have proposed an initial plan to end the Israel-Hamas conflict, involving a ceasefire, phased hostage release, and the formation of a Palestinian government of experts to administer Gaza and the West Bank. The proposal, presented to Israel, Hamas, the U.S., and European governments, aims to address the ongoing crisis. However, it remains in the early stages and may not fully align with Israel’s goals of crushing Hamas or maintaining extended military control over Gaza. The Israeli War Cabinet is set to discuss the situation, including the Egyptian proposal, with concerns about the escalating death toll and international pressure on Israel’s offensive. The proposed plan includes an initial two-week ceasefire, releasing hostages and prisoners, and establishing a transitional government in preparation for future elections.
Meanwhile, negotiations between Israel and Hamas are ongoing for a comprehensive “all-for-all” deal. This would involve the release of all remaining hostages, the withdrawal of the Israeli military from Gaza, and the cessation of Palestinian militants’ rocket attacks into Israel. The proposal also addresses the release of approximately 8,000 Palestinians held by Israel on security-related charges. Egyptian officials have discussed the plan with leaders such as Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas and plan to engage with Ziyad al-Nakhalah, the leader of the Islamic Jihad group. A Western diplomat is aware of the proposal but expresses doubt about its acceptance by the Netanyahu government. The ongoing conflict has taken a severe toll, with criticism directed at the Israeli government for its handling of the situation and military and policy failures.
Continued Israeli airstrikes inflicted a devastating toll in Gaza. In Deir al-Balah, Palestinians rushed to a hospital with casualties, including a baby, from a strike on the Maghazi refugee camp, resulting in 70 deaths, including women and children. The hospital records indicate an additional 80 casualties from strikes across central Gaza. In the northern Gaza Strip, heavy bombardment and gunfire were reported in the Jabaliya refugee camp, an area previously claimed by Israel. The Israeli military claims to have completed the dismantling of Hamas’ underground headquarters in northern Gaza. Israel faces international criticism for civilian casualties, blaming Hamas for using residential areas and tunnels. Allegations of mistreatment and abuse of detained Palestinians have also been raised, with hundreds transferred to Israel for further interrogation. Israel denies abuse claims and asserts the quick release of those without ties to militants. A released detainee, Khamis al-Burdainy, described harsh conditions, including being handcuffed and blindfolded, with limited access to sleep, food, and water.
