Hamas demands binding assurances that a new U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal will lead to a complete end to the war before accepting any truce, according to a source close to the group. The demand comes amid ongoing Israeli strikes that killed at least 59 Palestinians across Gaza on Thursday, including 17 at a Gaza City school sheltering displaced families. Despite U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement that Israel accepted a 60-day ceasefire framework, Hamas insists negotiations must guarantee Israeli withdrawal and lasting peace, a condition previously rejected by Prime Minister Netanyahu.
The U.S.-mediated plan outlines a phased approach. An initial 60-day ceasefire with Hamas releasing 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, followed by negotiations for a permanent resolution during the truce period. Egyptian and Qatari mediators are seeking international guarantees to reassure Hamas, though Israel maintains it will not halt hostilities until Hamas disarms. Two Israeli officials confirm details remain unresolved, with Hamas expected to respond by Friday.
Even as talks advance, Gaza faces relentless bombardment. 20 Palestinians were killed while heading to an aid distribution point near Khan Younis, a school strike in Gaza City ignited fires that trapped families, with survivor Wafaa Al-Arqan describing children "burning under collapsed tents". Gaza’s Health Ministry reports over 57,000 deaths since October 2023, with 85% of the population displaced and famine conditions worsening under Israel’s siege.
Prime Minister Netanyahu will meet President Trump at the White House on July 8 to discuss the ceasefire proposal, despite his public rejection of Hamas’s core demand. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen acknowledged "readiness to advance a deal," but Netanyahu’s office insists military operations will continue until Hamas is "dismantled."
UN agencies warn Gaza’s infrastructure is "beyond collapse," with no functional hospitals remaining in northern Gaza and 95% of children facing acute food insecurity. As diplomatic efforts continue, Palestinian civilians bear the brunt of the deadlock.