Cairo, April 23, 2025 – Hamas is set to unveil a comprehensive ceasefire proposal for Gaza as its representatives arrive in Cairo for negotiations, according to a report by the Saudi-owned newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat. The plan, detailed by correspondent Nurit Yohanan, outlines a single-phase release of all remaining hostages held in Gaza in exchange for a specified number of Palestinian prisoners, marking a significant shift in the group’s approach to resolving the ongoing conflict.
The proposed framework includes several key demands: the withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from Gaza to positions held under the recent ceasefire agreement, a complete halt to military operations, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid into the Strip. Additionally, Hamas is calling for a five-year truce backed by international guarantees, aiming to secure long-term stability in the region.
The proposal also incorporates an Egyptian initiative for civilian governance, suggesting the formation of a technocratic committee to manage Gaza’s affairs. Hamas has expressed openness to a reconciliation agreement with its rival faction, Fatah, potentially paving the way for unified Palestinian governance.
This development aligns with recent reports indicating Hamas’s willingness to pursue a long-term truce. Sources familiar with the matter told The Times of Israel earlier this week that Hamas had signaled to Arab mediators its readiness to suspend all military activities, including weapons development and tunnel construction, during such a truce.
The Cairo talks come amid heightened international efforts to broker peace in the region. The proposed ceasefire framework, if accepted, could reshape the dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a path toward de-escalation and humanitarian relief. However, the success of the negotiations hinges on Israel’s response and the ability to secure international support for the truce’s enforcement.
As mediators and stakeholders convene, the world watches closely to see whether this bold proposal can break the cycle of violence and lay the foundation for lasting peace in Gaza.
Key Points:
Hamas’s New Ceasefire Proposal: Hamas is expected to propose a comprehensive ceasefire framework for Gaza during talks in Cairo, as reported by Asharq Al-Awsat.
Single-Phase Hostage Release: The plan includes releasing all remaining hostages in Gaza in one phase, in exchange for an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners.
Key Demands: Hamas seeks IDF withdrawal to recent ceasefire positions, a halt to military operations, and increased humanitarian aid access to Gaza.
Five-Year Truce: The proposal calls for a five-year ceasefire with international guarantees to ensure long-term stability.
Civilian Governance: Hamas supports an Egyptian proposal for a technocratic committee to manage Gaza’s civilian affairs.
Reconciliation with Fatah: The group is open to a reconciliation agreement with rival faction Fatah, aiming for unified Palestinian governance.
Alignment with Recent Reports: The proposal aligns with Hamas’s recent indications to Arab mediators of willingness for a long-term truce, halting military activities, including weapons development and tunnel construction.
