Hamas announced its willingness to resume negotiations based on a ceasefire plan proposed by the United States. The group confirmed it had shared its response with mediators.
In a statement, Hamas said, “The movement has delivered its response to the brotherly mediators, which was characterised by a positive spirit. Hamas is fully prepared, with all seriousness, to immediately enter a new round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework.”
Meanwhile, Israeli media reported that the government had received Hamas’s reply and is now reviewing it.
Just Ahead of Netanyahu’s US Visit
Notably, this announcement came after Hamas held talks with other Palestinian factions. It also came just before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington.
Earlier on June 30, US President Donald Trump stated that Israel had accepted a 60-day ceasefire. He then urged Hamas to follow suit. In response, Hamas spent several days studying the deal before declaring its support for more talks.
Islamic Jihad Adds Its Own Condition
At the same time, Islamic Jihad—an ally of Hamas—said it supports negotiations. However, it also demanded that Israel “guarantee” there will be “no attacks” after hostages are freed.
Details of the Proposed Truce
According to a Palestinian source familiar with the talks, the latest proposal is almost the same as earlier US plans.
Specifically, the deal includes a 60-day ceasefire, during which Hamas would release half of the living Israeli hostages in Gaza. In exchange, Israel would release several Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
So far, the Israeli military says 49 hostages remain in Gaza, out of the 251 seized in October 2023. Among those still held, 27 are believed to be dead.
Netanyahu Vows to Rescue All Hostages
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed his commitment to free all hostages held by Hamas. During a visit to Nir Oz kibbutz, he said, “I feel a deep commitment, first and foremost, to ensure the return of all our abductees, all of them.”
He added, “We will bring them all back,” in a video message released by his office.
What Comes Next?
So far, both sides appear open to negotiations. With Netanyahu set to meet Trump in Washington, further progress could follow soon. However, challenges remain. Trust is still low, and key terms must be finalized. Still, with international pressure rising and talks back on the table, momentum may now shift toward a possible ceasefire.
