Hamas Agrees to Ceasefire Proposal in Gaza, Israel’s Position Remains Uncertain

Hamas has announced that it has formally informed mediators of its acceptance of a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. However, Israel’s stance on this proposal is still unclear.

Meanwhile, at least eight people were killed in Israeli strikes on tents housing displaced people in Khan Younis, Gaza. Another four were killed in a separate tent in the Deir al-Balah area, according to local hospital authorities.

Inside Israel, strong speculation is ongoing that the return of prisoners and at least a temporary ceasefire could be implemented. Recently, the country has seen large-scale anti-war movements and a national strike, with millions pressuring Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a ceasefire in exchange for the release of prisoners.

It remains uncertain whether Netanyahu will accept this proposal. Currently, the Israeli parliament (Knesset) is in recess, meaning the Prime Minister is not under immediate pressure regarding parliamentary majority. Additionally, there is no immediate threat of coalition collapse, giving him more political leeway to negotiate than at any previous time.

Analysts suggest that a strategic option for Netanyahu could be to first agree to the ceasefire and take credit for the prisoner return, and then resume military operations once public pressure eases.

However, Netanyahu still faces personal challenges. Ongoing corruption cases against him, potential investigations into security failures before October 7, and the lack of a clear post-war plan for Gaza all make any ceasefire agreement a complex political decision for Israel.