Hamas submits “positive” response to ceasefire proposal, ready for immediate negotiations

TEL AVIV / GAZA — Under intense international pressure, Hamas announced it has completed internal consultations regarding a proposed ceasefire with Israel, describing its official response as “positive.”  

After internal discussions with Palestinian factions, Hamas submitted its response, signaling willingness to proceed with talks. The group stated it has delivered its reply to mediators and is prepared to engage immediately in negotiations to finalize the agreement’s implementation. 

The revised agreement, as reported by Al-Majalla, includes 13 key points, including the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners, to be determined by Israel, without public ceremonies, in addition to immediate, large-scale humanitarian aid to Gaza, as well as a full halt to Israeli offensive military operations once the deal takes effect. 

U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff will oversee final negotiations, while American president Donald Trump is expected to personally announce the ceasefire. The U.S. is committed to ensuring talks continue until a final agreement is reached. 

Meanwhile, Israeli sources indicated that Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government will hold urgent discussions this weekend on Hamas’s response, which reportedly includes amendments that could challenge Israeli decision-makers. 

Israeli media noted that Hamas’s proposed changes may complicate the process, but the group’s engagement has raised cautious optimism. The deal, if finalized, could mark a pivotal step toward ending the conflict.