In a significant development aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has presented a detailed proposal for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The plan, which Israel has officially accepted and Hamas is currently reviewing, also includes a phased release of hostages held by Hamas.
The ceasefire proposal outlines an immediate halt to hostilities for two months, during which humanitarian aid would be allowed unrestricted entry into Gaza. The plan calls for the staged redeployment of Israeli forces within Gaza, with initial repositioning in the northern region and the Netzarim corridor on the first day, followed by movements in southern Gaza on the seventh day.
A key component of the agreement is the release of hostages. Hamas would free 10 living Israeli captives and the remains of 18 deceased individuals from a list of 58 hostages. Half of these—five living and nine deceased—would be released on the first day of the ceasefire, with the remainder freed on day seven. Additionally, Hamas must provide proof of life or death and medical information for all remaining hostages within 10 days of the ceasefire’s start.
The proposal also calls for the commencement of negotiations on a permanent peace agreement, mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar. These talks would address the exchange of all remaining prisoners, Israeli withdrawal, long-term security arrangements, and the political future of Gaza.
If a permanent deal is not reached within the 60-day period, the ceasefire may be extended by mutual consent, provided both parties negotiate in good faith.
US officials have indicated that President Donald Trump will announce the ceasefire once Hamas formally accepts the proposal. Witkoff will lead ongoing efforts to ensure the negotiations progress toward a lasting resolution.
This proposal marks a hopeful step toward de-escalating the conflict and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with international observers closely monitoring developments.