Times of Israel

Hamas says it accepts ceasefire proposal after Israel announces Rafah operation

Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh has confirmed the group's acceptance of ceasefire terms presented by Qatar and Egypt, aiming to de-escalate tensions with Israel. While the specifics of the agreement were not detailed, sources reveal a three-phase plan involving a 40-day truce during which 33 living hostages, including vulnerable groups such as women, children, the elderly, and the sick, will be released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners. Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas will begin during the truce, aiming to establish long-term peace in Gaza. In the second phase, all remaining hostages will be freed during a 42-day truce for hundreds more security prisoners, followed by an IDF withdrawal from Gaza. The final phase also includes a 42-day period in which Hamas would return the bodies of deceased individuals in exchange for bodies of Palestinian prisoners who died in Israeli custody. The agreement also entails rebuilding efforts in Gaza starting with essential infrastructure and housing over the next five years.