PM Netanyahu and officials will review Hamas’ response and new views on a truce proposal made public by US President Joe Biden in May.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will convene his security cabinet on Thursday evening to examine fresh Hamas stances on a possible Gaza ceasefire deal, according to a source in Netanyahu’s office, as fighting continues in the enclave.
Before the cabinet meeting, Netanyahu will consult with his ceasefire negotiations team, according to the source.
On Wednesday, Israel received Hamas’ answer to a proposal made public by US President Joe Biden at the end of May, which included the release of approximately 120 captives held in Gaza and a cease-fire in the Palestinian enclave.
A Palestinian official close to the mediation process stated that Hamas, the Palestinian resistance group in Gaza, had showed flexibility on some elements that would allow a framework deal to be reached if Israel approves.
Two Hamas officials did not immediately return requests for comment. Hamas has stated that any agreement must end the war and include a complete Israeli pullout from Gaza. Israel insists that it will accept only periodic pauses in the conflict until Hamas is destroyed.
The plan calls for the gradual release of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli forces during the first two phases, and the release of Palestinian captives.
The third step is rebuilding the war-torn region and reuniting the remains of deceased hostages.
