BREAKING: Hamas Accepts Gaza Truce Proposal 

BREAKING: Hamas Accepts Gaza Truce Proposal 

Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, has communicated to intermediaries from Qatar and Egypt that the Palestinian militant group has accepted a proposed truce for Gaza after nearly seven months of conflict.

The group released a statement on its official website confirming Haniyeh’s discussions with Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani and Egyptian Intelligence Minister Abbas Kamel, where he conveyed Hamas’s endorsement of the proposed ceasefire agreement.

It is important to note that despite Hamas’s acceptance, the ceasefire is pending confirmation from the Israeli side, as they have yet to convey their stance on the proposal.

A senior Hamas official clarified that the ceasefire is not operational until both parties have agreed to it. The decision now lies with Israel to either accept the ceasefire agreement or impede its progress.

Following Israel’s call for Palestinians to evacuate eastern Rafah in anticipation of a potential ground invasion, there has been increasing global concern about the repercussions of such a military action.

Residents of Rafah expressed unease and uncertainty regarding the evacuation order; however, upon hearing about Hamas’s acceptance of the proposed truce, crowds in Rafah erupted in celebration.

The atmosphere was one of relief and jubilation, with people chanting “Allahu Akbar” and expressing their joy through celebratory gunfire.

Despite extensive diplomatic efforts, mediators have struggled to facilitate a lasting ceasefire akin to the previous week-long truce that resulted in the release of 105 hostages, including Israelis, in November.

Previous negotiation attempts faltered due in part to Hamas’s insistence on a sustainable ceasefire and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s determination to eliminate remaining Hamas fighters in Rafah.

The situation in Gaza remains delicate, with the future of the proposed ceasefire dependent on the willingness of both Hamas and Israel to commit to peace.

The region continues to face challenges and uncertainties, underscoring the importance of diplomatic efforts and dialogue in resolving conflicts and fostering stability in the area.