Israel is prepared to agree to a 60-day ceasefire plan.

Recent reports indicate a potential breakthrough in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. After a year and a half of intense fighting, Israel has reportedly agreed to a 60-day ceasefire proposal brokered by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

According to state-owned KAN TV, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conveyed this development during a meeting with families of deceased Israeli hostages. US officials have confirmed Israel’s acceptance of the deal prior to its submission to Hamas.

Hamas has acknowledged receipt of the proposal and stated they are reviewing it with the aim of providing relief to the Palestinian population and establishing a permanent ceasefire.

The proposed agreement entails a 60-day cessation of hostilities in Gaza in exchange for the release of ten living Israeli hostages and 18 bodies. In return, Israel would release over 1,200 Palestinian detainees and 180 bodies. While not mandating an end to Israel’s offensive, the proposal necessitates negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a long-term truce, with the United States, Egypt, and Qatar acting as guarantors.

Currently, Israel asserts that Hamas is holding 58 hostages in Gaza, with 20 presumed to be alive. A prior ceasefire agreement dissolved in March, leading to the resumption of Israeli operations after a two-month truce that saw the release of 33 hostages by Hamas. Tragically, since the conflict’s escalation in October 2023, over 54,000 Gazans have lost their lives, as reported by Gaza’s health authorities.