Will Hamas Accept the US Envoy's Ceasefire Proposal or Face Destruction?
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Synopsis
In a tense standoff, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warns Hamas to accept a ceasefire deal proposed by US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff or face dire consequences. The deal involves complex negotiations around hostages and detainees, escalating the urgency of the situation in Gaza. What will be Hamas's next move?
Key Takeaways
- Israeli Defence Minister issues a stern warning to Hamas.
- Ceasefire proposal includes complex terms for hostages and detainees.
- Israeli military operations continue at an unprecedented scale.
- Significant humanitarian concerns arise amidst ongoing conflict.
- The situation remains fluid as negotiations unfold.
Jerusalem, May 31 (NationPress) Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has issued a stark warning to Hamas, urging them to accept the ceasefire agreement for Gaza proposed by US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff, stating they must do so "or face destruction."
The proposal from Witkoff entails the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 deceased individuals in two phases in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. Additionally, it includes the release of 1,236 Palestinian detainees and the remains of 180 Palestinians, as reported by Xinhua news agency citing media sources.
In a statement from his office, Katz emphasized that the Israeli military is intensifying its operations in Gaza, executing attacks from air, land, and sea at an unprecedented level to ensure the utmost protection of Israeli soldiers while preparing for the deployment of maneuvering forces in various regions.
The Israeli military announced on Friday that since Thursday, its air force, in collaboration with ground troops, targeted numerous sites across the Gaza Strip, successfully "eliminating terrorists, dismantling weaponry, and destroying terrorist infrastructure."
During these military actions, two rocket-propelled grenades were launched at Israeli forces, resulting in minor injuries to three soldiers.
Out of the 251 hostages taken during the October 2023 Hamas assault, 57 are still held in Gaza, with reports suggesting that 34 of them may have perished, as per Israeli military statements.
Earlier on Friday, the White House announced that Israel has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire proposal, even as the Israeli army continues its operations in the conflict-ridden area.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed during a press briefing that US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff and US President Donald Trump have presented a ceasefire plan to Hamas that has received Israeli support.
Point of View
We maintain a commitment to presenting the facts without bias. Israel's military operations in Gaza and the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire highlight the complexities of this conflict. It’s crucial to acknowledge the humanitarian implications while reporting on military strategies and political maneuvers.
NationPress
25/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ceasefire proposal by the US envoy?
The ceasefire proposal includes the release of 10 Israeli hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and the release of 1,236 Palestinian detainees.
What did Israel's Defence Minister say about Hamas?
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz warned Hamas to accept the ceasefire deal 'or face destruction.'
How many hostages are still in Gaza?
Out of the 251 hostages taken during the October 2023 attack, 57 remain in Gaza, with 34 believed to be deceased.
What military actions has Israel taken recently?
The Israeli military has intensified operations in Gaza, targeting numerous sites to eliminate terrorist threats and dismantle weapon infrastructure.
What support does the US provide in this conflict?
The US is actively involved in proposing ceasefire agreements and providing support to Israel in its military actions.
