The Palestinian movement Hamas has agreed to a proposal by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip on Monday.
Witkoff’s proposal was conveyed to Hamas through intermediaries. It provides for the release of ten Israeli hostages, a 70-day ceasefire and the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip.
The initiative also calls for Israel to release a number of Palestinian prisoners, including hundreds serving long prison terms. In addition, during the truce, the parties will begin discussions on a permanent ceasefire.
Earlier, Israel and Hamas had twice concluded ceasefires and exchanged Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The last ceasefire ended in March. The parties were unable to agree on its extension.
