Gaza City, August 19(HS): Hamas has signaled its willingness to halt hostilities on Monday, informing Qatari and Egyptian mediators that it has accepted the latest ceasefire proposal in Gaza. The plan outlines a 60‑day pause in fighting, a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces to allow life‑saving humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave, and the release of half of the remaining Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Despite the announcement, Israel’s leadership remains defiant. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed military preparations for seizing Gaza City, while Defense Minister Israel Katz argued that Hamas’s newfound openness stems from fear of an imminent Israeli advance. Far-right members of the coalition dismissed the truce as a ploy, warning against granting Hamas “a lifeline.”

On the ground, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis has reached catastrophic proportions. More than 62,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s campaign, and a manmade famine has already claimed over 260 lives. Egypt’s foreign minister described the situation as beyond imagination,” as aid agencies warn of looming mass starvation. Amnesty International accused Israel of enacting a “deliberate policy” of collective starvation in violation of international law.

Negotiations have repeatedly faltered over the length of any truce. While Hamas demands a permanent cessation of hostilities, Israel insists on temporary pauses, buying time to continue its offensive once captives are freed. Analysts argue that the lack of international pressure has emboldened Israel to prolong the war.

Mediators from Qatar and Egypt insist they remain committed to securing a breakthrough, but with Israel pressing ahead militarily and Gaza’s civilians bearing the brunt, hopes for a lasting peace remain dim.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar