Last night, Hamas officials were reviewing a 21 US peace proposal while violence continued in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 46 Palestinians. Tragic incidents included a mother and her six children perishing in a missile strike on an apartment building in Deir al-Balah. Additionally, casualties occurred in an Israeli strike on a tent in a coastal refugee camp in al-Mawsi.
The conflict escalated with widespread attacks across Gaza, intensifying from early Tuesday morning. Just before the latest Israeli offensive, Hamas received a written peace plan from the US, setting a time limit of “three or four days” for a response. This proposal is seen as a significant step towards peace in the region since the outbreak of violence in 2023.
The death toll from the war has risen to at least 66,000 Palestinians and nearly 2,000 Israelis, posing a grave threat of further escalation. Hamas indicated that they would review the peace plan internally and with other Palestinian factions before making a decision.
The terms of the proposal, endorsed by Israel, include allowing Gazans to remain in the Strip, granting amnesty to Hamas fighters, ceasing hostilities, and ensuring the prompt return of hostages. Upon the return of all remaining hostages, including those believed to be alive, 250 Palestinians serving life sentences would be released, along with other prisoners and deceased individuals.
The peace plan entails the expulsion of Hamas from Gaza, the introduction of a new police force, de-radicalization programs, and a commitment from Gaza to coexist peacefully with Israel. A peace oversight board led by Trump and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair would supervise Gaza until a Palestinian authority is established.
However, Trump cautioned that if Hamas rejects the proposal, Netanyahu would be authorized to take further military action. The international community, including countries like France, Italy, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan, has expressed support for the plan.
While extremist groups on both sides criticized the peace initiative, world leaders like Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez welcomed the proposal, emphasizing the urgency of achieving peace and providing humanitarian aid to the affected population.