New Ceasefire Proposal in Gaza: Egypt and Qatar Renew Push for Peace

Amid ongoing conflict and years of unrest in the Middle East, fresh hopes for long-term peace in Gaza have emerged. Egypt and Qatar, who are mediating ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas, have introduced a new and comprehensive proposal that is being seen as significant on multiple fronts.

According to a report by the BBC, the new plan calls for a five to seven-year ceasefire, a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the release of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, and a formal end to the war.

Hamas Delegation to Reach Cairo, Israel Yet to Respond

To discuss the proposed terms, a high-level Hamas delegation is expected to arrive in Cairo, including Mohammad Darwish, head of Hamas’ political council, and Khalil al-Hayya, its chief negotiator. So far, Israel has not made any official comment on the proposal.

Earlier this year, a short-term truce had briefly taken effect but collapsed in March. Since then, Israel resumed bombing Gaza, and both sides blamed each other for the breakdown of talks.

Hamas Signals Flexibility, Netanyahu Stands Firm

While Hamas recently rejected an Israeli proposal that offered a six-week truce in exchange for disarmament, the group has now signaled a willingness to relinquish administrative control over Gaza. Governance could potentially be handed over to a Palestinian Authority (PA) entity that currently controls the West Bank or to a newly formed governing body agreed upon at a national or regional level.

On the other hand, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a video message on Saturday declaring that Israel will not surrender to Hamas. He stated firmly that the war will continue until Hamas is dismantled and all hostages are safely returned. He described a ceasefire on Hamas’s terms as equivalent to a surrender.

What Lies Ahead?

While the proposal has been placed on the negotiating table, the real test lies ahead. Sustainable peace will depend on political will, mutual trust, and ground realities. The coming days will determine whether this latest plan becomes a turning point or just another missed opportunity in the long history of failed talks.