Netanyahu backs US-brokered Gaza ceasefire as Macron calls for stronger European stance and recognition of Palestinian State

GAZA / TEL AVIV — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved a US-proposed ceasefire plan for the Gaza Strip, Israeli media reported. The initiative, presented by US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, aims to halt hostilities and initiate humanitarian measures in the region.

The proposed ceasefire includes a 60-day truce during which nine living prisoners and 18 bodies would be exchanged in two phases over one week. As part of the deal, Israel would withdraw from recently occupied areas. According to Channel 12, Israeli forces would leave territories north of the Netzarim corridor on the first day and vacate areas south of the corridor by the seventh day.

The plan also specifies that, in the absence of further agreements by the end of negotiations, Israel retains the right to resume military operations. Humanitarian aid distribution, coordinated with United Nations involvement, forms another critical component of the agreement.

Hamas has said the details of the proposed ceasefire “does not meet the needs of Palestinians,” but is reviewing the proposal.

Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron weighed in on the continuing crisis, underscoring the need for international action. Speaking at a press conference in Singapore alongside Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Macron emphasized that recognizing a Palestinian state is both a moral duty and a political necessity. He called for Europe to adopt a unified and firmer position toward Israel if it does not adequately address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza in the coming hours and days.