Hamas says consulting with Palestinian factions on Gaza ceasefire proposal put forward by US

GAZA -- Hamas said on Friday that it is consulting with Palestinian forces and factions regarding the Gaza ceasefire proposal put forward by US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.

A source from the movement, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the consultations aim to examine the details of the proposal and ensure its compatibility with Palestinian interests ahead of determining a final position.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday that his government accepts Witkoff's proposal for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, Israel's state-owned Kan TV news reported.

Quoting a senior Israeli official, Kan reported that the proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of 10 living hostages and 18 bodies in two phases. Israel would release 1,236 Palestinian detainees and prisoners, along with the bodies of 180 Palestinians.

Basem Naim, a member of Hamas's political bureau, said Thursday in a statement that the movement had received the Israeli response to the US proposal.

According to Naim, the Israeli position fails to address key Palestinian demands, including a complete cessation of hostilities and the lifting of the long-standing blockade on Gaza.

He said the proposal would allow for the continuation of "the occupation" and humanitarian suffering, even during any temporary truce.

"Nevertheless, the movement's leadership is evaluating the proposal with a sense of national responsibility, particularly in light of the ongoing violence and humanitarian crisis facing the Palestinian people," Naim said.