In a significant development, Hamas announced on Wednesday that it will not engage with Israel's recent counter-proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza. An official from the Palestinian militant group confirmed their commitment to the mediators' original plan, which involves Egypt and Qatar.

This decision emerged after Israel conveyed its counter-proposal on March 29, coordinating closely with the United States. Earlier, Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire proposal put forth by the mediators, which aims to expand upon the terms of a prior ceasefire agreement reached on January 17.

Documents obtained by Reuters indicate that the mediators’ proposal suggests a 50-day extension of the current ceasefire. It also calls for a swift resolution to negotiations regarding the second phase of the ceasefire before the 50-day timeframe elapses.

Key conditions outlined in the proposal include the immediate release of Edan Alexander, a 21-year-old soldier from New Jersey, on the first day following the official announcement of the ceasefire. In exchange, Hamas is expected to release four Israeli hostages at intervals of every ten days. This exchange would also involve the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, alongside an additional 2,000 individuals detained after the escalation of violence that began on October 7.

Furthermore, the proposal emphasizes the cessation of Israeli military operations, the reopening of vital crossings for humanitarian assistance, and the reestablishment of the Netzarim Corridor, facilitating the movement of vehicles between Gaza's southern and northern regions.

Despite these attempts towards a ceasefire, tensions remain high. The Israeli military recently stated that it had resumed operations in central and southern Gaza, following significant military actions that expanded Israel's operational areas within the enclave. Reports indicate that over 50,000 Palestinians have died during the ongoing Israeli offensive, marking it as one of the deadliest periods in recent history for civilians in Gaza.

This conflict erupted after a massive attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths among the Israeli population and the abduction of 251 individuals. As the situation continues to unfold, both sides appear entrenched in their positions, raising concerns over the humanitarian crisis worsening in Gaza and the broader implications for regional stability.

Will the international community intervene in time to prevent further escalation? Stay tuned for updates as negotiations and conflicts develop!