AP News

Hamas is reviewing an Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza, as a planned Rafah offensive looms

Hamas is reviewing a new Israeli proposal for a cease-fire in Gaza, as Egypt works to broker a deal to end the months-long conflict and prevent an Israeli ground offensive into the southern city of Rafah. The proposal follows a Hamas offer from two weeks ago, which included negotiations over a six-week cease-fire and the release of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. Egyptian and Israeli officials have been discussing a plan for a limited exchange of hostages and the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza with minimal restrictions. However, Hamas demands a permanent cease-fire and full withdrawal of Israeli troops, which Israel has rejected. International pressure mounts for a cease-fire deal as a potential offensive on Rafah could worsen the humanitarian crisis and threaten regional peace. Israeli airstrikes in Rafah and the West Bank continue, and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is expected to visit the region for further discussions.