In a significant development aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Hamas has responded in a "positive" manner to a proposal for a cease-fire in exchange for the release of hostages, according to Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

The Qatari mediator, who has played a crucial role in the negotiations to bring an end to Israel's war against Hamas, expressed optimism during a joint news conference with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Doha, Qatar. Sheikh Al Thani noted that Hamas' response to the blueprint was generally positive, despite some additional comments.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in a four-month-long Israeli military campaign in the Gaza Strip. Israeli officials claim that the Hamas attack led to the death of 1,200 people and the kidnapping of approximately 240 hostages, who were taken back to Gaza. According to Gaza's Health Ministry, Israel's invasion has resulted in the death of over 27,000 people.

Secretary Blinken, who had previously visited Saudi Arabia and Egypt during his tour of the region, expressed his intention to discuss the Hamas proposal with Israeli leadership upon his arrival in Israel. Israeli officials have stated that they are currently reviewing the proposal, which aims to secure a temporary truce in exchange for the release of the remaining 130 hostages.

Hamas, in a separate statement, acknowledged receipt of the proposal in a "positive spirit." However, they emphasize their continued insistence on a permanent cease-fire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli military forces from the Gaza Strip. These demands have so far been rejected by Israel, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizing the objective of achieving "total victory" over Hamas.

While acknowledging that there is still much work to be done, Secretary Blinken confirmed that during his discussions in Saudi Arabia, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed readiness to normalize ties with Israel if peace is achieved in Gaza.

President Biden also weighed in on Hamas' response, acknowledging the movement generated by their reaction to the proposal. He stated that negotiations are ongoing and highlighted the need for further clarity and progress.

According to a senior Hamas official, the proposed plan includes a three-stage cease-fire. The first stage would involve the release of civilian hostages, followed by the release of captured soldiers in the second stage, and finally the return of the bodies of deceased hostages in the third stage.

As the negotiations continue, there is cautious optimism that the positive response from Hamas and ongoing discussions will pave the way for a potential resolution to the conflict and bring much-needed stability to the region.