In a recent announcement, Hamas, the Palestinian group governing the Gaza Strip, stated that it has approved a proposed ceasefire agreement put forward by mediators from Qatar and Egypt. The approval came following a telephone call between Ismail Haniyeh, head of Hamas's political bureau, and Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, as well as Egypt's Intelligence Minister, Mr Abbas Kamel.

While Hamas expressed its support for the ceasefire proposal, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office maintained that the deal falls short of its demands. The office stated that although the proposal does not meet Israel's necessary requirements, they would send a delegation to meet with the mediators to explore the possibility of reaching an agreement acceptable to Israel.

The specific details of the proposed agreement were not immediately disclosed. However, Khalil al-Hayya, a member of Hamas's political bureau, revealed that the Qatari-Egyptian proposal includes a phased three-stage truce. Each stage would last for 42 days. The initial phase would focus on indirect negotiations through mediators, with discussions centered around the exchange of captives and prisoners. This phase would also involve the withdrawal of certain Israeli troops from designated areas, the return of displaced families to their homes, and the delivery of aid and fuel into Gaza.

In the second phase, al-Hayya explained that there would be a complete and permanent cessation of military activity in Gaza. The final phase would concentrate on the crucial task of reconstruction in post-war Gaza, with oversight provided by Egypt, Qatar, and United Nations agencies.

Hamas's announcement brought a sense of optimism and relief among Palestinians, who have faced immense suffering and trauma during the conflict. However, Israel's intensified attacks in eastern Rafah following the announcement have heightened concerns for the safety and well-being of the affected population.

The United States Department of State spokesperson, Matthew Miller, stated that Washington would withhold judgment on Hamas's announcement until they have thoroughly reviewed the details. Miller emphasized that achieving a ceasefire remains a top priority for the US administration.

The seven-month Gaza war has resulted in the deaths of at least 34,735 people, primarily women and children, with 78,018 wounded, according to Palestinian authorities. Israel launched the offensive in response to an attack led by Hamas on southern Israel. The destruction caused by the conflict, coupled with a near-total siege, has pushed parts of Gaza to the brink of famine.

As the situation unfolds, the international community awaits Israel's response to the proposed ceasefire agreement. The potential acceptance or rejection of the deal carries significant political implications for Netanyahu and the future of the region.