An Israeli official stated that troops will not withdraw from Gaza unless Hamas undergoes genuine disarmament, as reactions to a potential ceasefire deal continue to emerge. The official, speaking to CNN and cited by BBC News, emphasized the need to verify Hamas's actions regarding disarmament rather than relying solely on their statements.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed that Israel is "very happy" with a proposal that would involve the Palestinian group giving up its weapons in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from the territory.
Palestinians in Gaza and Israelis have shared their hopes and anxieties regarding the proposed ceasefire. Tala, an 18-year-old living in a tent after her home was destroyed, told BBC Newsbeat that each broken promise of a ceasefire intensifies fear, but the hope for an end to the fighting persists. She described daily life as "very challenging" with constant concerns about safety and basic necessities, emphasizing the need to "stop the fighting, protecting civilians and setting a new chapter of re-building."
In Israel, Jonny shared his prayers for the ceasefire's success, stating, "I don't see an ending to this cycle, but I pray it's the case."
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the proposed agreement as "the only good news in recent days." However, UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband urged focus on implementing the full 20-point peace plan, including the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and respect for the ceasefire by all parties. Miliband also highlighted the "appalling" conditions in Gaza and called for an immediate end to "unacceptable restrictions on aid," a claim Israel denies.
The conflict was initiated by the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 251 hostages taken. Israel's subsequent military campaign in Gaza has led to over 73,290 deaths, according to the Gaza health ministry, figures corroborated by the UN.
