What's happened
Negotiations for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are ongoing, with Hamas proposing amendments to a U.S.-backed plan. The proposal includes the release of hostages and humanitarian aid, but significant disagreements remain. The situation is critical as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens, with over 54,000 casualties reported since the conflict escalated in October 2023.
What's behind the headline?
Key Points of the Ceasefire Proposal
- Duration: A proposed 60-day ceasefire aims to halt hostilities and facilitate humanitarian aid.
- Hostage Release: Hamas has suggested spreading the release of hostages over the truce period, complicating Israel's military options.
- Negotiation Dynamics: The U.S. proposal, backed by Israel, has been met with skepticism from Hamas, which seeks stronger guarantees against future hostilities.
Implications
- Humanitarian Crisis: The ongoing conflict has led to dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza, with the UN warning of famine risks.
- Political Stakes: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces pressure from hardline coalition members against concessions, complicating the negotiation landscape.
- Future of Hostages: The fate of the remaining hostages remains a critical bargaining chip, influencing both sides' strategies moving forward.
What the papers say
The Guardian reported that Hamas submitted amendments to the U.S. proposal, which includes the release of hostages and a call for a permanent ceasefire. However, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff deemed Hamas's response 'totally unacceptable' (Lorenzo Tondo, The Guardian). The Times of Israel highlighted that Hamas's demands complicate Israel's military strategy, as they seek to prevent a return to hostilities after the truce (The Times of Israel). Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post noted that the humanitarian situation in Gaza is critical, with over 54,000 casualties reported since the conflict began (South China Morning Post).
How we got here
The conflict escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in significant casualties and the abduction of hostages. Since then, multiple ceasefire attempts have failed, with the humanitarian situation in Gaza deteriorating due to ongoing military operations and blockades.
Go deeper
- What are the main points of contention in the ceasefire talks?
- How is the humanitarian situation in Gaza affecting negotiations?
- What are the implications of the hostage situation for both sides?
Common question
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What is the New Ceasefire Proposal for the Israel-Hamas Conflict?
On May 29, 2025, a new ceasefire proposal was submitted to Hamas, backed by Israel, aiming to address the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis. This proposal raises several important questions about its implications and the future of peace talks in the region.
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What is the latest on the Gaza conflict ceasefire negotiations?
As the Gaza conflict continues to escalate, a new ceasefire proposal has emerged, sparking interest and concern worldwide. This page addresses key questions surrounding the ceasefire negotiations, including the proposal's details, responses from involved parties, and the humanitarian implications of the ongoing conflict.
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
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