Trump, in a White House news conference on Tuesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stunningly proposed "long-term ownership" of Gaza by the United States, triggering an international uproar.
The remarks came after he has repeatedly called in recent days for the war-ravaged territory's residents to move to Jordan or Egypt.
"At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their land," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-generous-move-donald-trump-administartion-backtracks-from-us-presidents-gaza-take-over-remark-8694608">Not 'hostile': Trump administartion backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark</a>
But, he added, "we have seen the realization of those rights steadily slip farther out of reach."
"We have seen a chilling, systematic dehumanisation and demonisation of an entire people," Guterres said.
Guterres said nothing justified the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the war in Gaza but "the catalogue of destruction and unspeakable horrors" that came as Israel attacked Gaza relentlessly in reprisal could not be justified either.
UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked specifically about the Trump proposal, said "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing."
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"It is vital that we stay true to the bedrock of international law. It is essential to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing."
After an international outcry, Trump administration officials tried Wednesday to walk back the Trump proposal, saying any displacement of the Palestinians of Gaza would be temporary while the largely destroyed territory is rebuilt.
Trump had also not committed to deploying US troops to carry out his plan, they said.
Guterres insisted on the idea of a two-state solution with Israel and the Palestinians living side by side in peace.
"Any durable peace will require tangible, irreversible and permanent progress toward the two-state solution, an end to the occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part,' he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-signs-order-banning-transgender-athletes-from-womens-sports-in-teh-us-to-push-for-similar-ban-in-olympics-next-8694512">'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports</a>
To that end, the Palestinian envoy to the UN Riyad Mansour called for a "successful" international conference at the United Nations to discuss the issue, scheduled for June and co-chaired by Saudia Arabia and France.
Even with large parts of Gaza's north in ruins, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have returned since late January, under a fragile truce that has halted more than 15 months of war.
Gaza's north, which includes Gaza City, has been devastated by Israel's military offensive launched after Hamas's 2023 attack, with homes, hospitals, schools and almost all civil infrastructure flattened.
Mansour reiterated Palestinians' rejection of Trump's plan to take over Gaza.
WATCH: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-gaza-remarks-muslim-leaders-denounce-takeover-plan-8694579">Trump's Gaza remarks: Muslim leaders denounce 'takeover' plan</a>
"We are not going to leave Gaza," he said. "It is part of our homeland, and we don't have a homeland other than the State of Palestine." He added that Palestinians would be "delighted" to return to their homes in present-day Israel from where they were "kicked from."
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Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.
</div>

World | The remarks came after he has repeatedly called in recent days for the war-ravaged territory's residents to move to Jordan or Egypt.

Trump, in a White House news conference on Tuesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stunningly proposed "long-term ownership" of Gaza by the United States, triggering an international uproar. The remarks came after he has repeatedly called in recent days for the war-ravaged territory's residents to move to Jordan or Egypt. "At its essence, the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people is about the right of Palestinians to simply live as human beings in their land," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a speech to a UN committee that deals with the rights of Palestinians. Also read: Not 'hostile': Trump administartion backtracks from US President's Gaza 'take over' remark But, he added, "we have seen the realization of those rights steadily slip farther out of reach." "We have seen a chilling, systematic dehumanisation and demonisation of an entire people," Guterres said. Guterres said nothing justified the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel that sparked the war in Gaza but "the catalogue of destruction and unspeakable horrors" that came as Israel attacked Gaza relentlessly in reprisal could not be justified either. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric, asked specifically about the Trump proposal, said "Any forced displacement of people is tantamount to ethnic cleansing." Also read: Argentina follows Trump's lead, withdraws from World Health Organization "It is vital that we stay true to the bedrock of international law. It is essential to avoid any form of ethnic cleansing." After an international outcry, Trump administration officials tried Wednesday to walk back the Trump proposal, saying any displacement of the Palestinians of Gaza would be temporary while the largely destroyed territory is rebuilt. Trump had also not committed to deploying US troops to carry out his plan, they said. Guterres insisted on the idea of a two-state solution with Israel and the Palestinians living side by side in peace. "Any durable peace will require tangible, irreversible and permanent progress toward the two-state solution, an end to the occupation, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part,' he said. Also read: 'War on women sports'? Donald Trump signs order banning transgender athletes from women's sports To that end, the Palestinian envoy to the UN Riyad Mansour called for a "successful" international conference at the United Nations to discuss the issue, scheduled for June and co-chaired by Saudia Arabia and France. Even with large parts of Gaza's north in ruins, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have returned since late January, under a fragile truce that has halted more than 15 months of war. Gaza's north, which includes Gaza City, has been devastated by Israel's military offensive launched after Hamas's 2023 attack, with homes, hospitals, schools and almost all civil infrastructure flattened. Mansour reiterated Palestinians' rejection of Trump's plan to take over Gaza. WATCH: Trump's Gaza remarks: Muslim leaders denounce 'takeover' plan "We are not going to leave Gaza," he said. "It is part of our homeland, and we don't have a homeland other than the State of Palestine." He added that Palestinians would be "delighted" to return to their homes in present-day Israel from where they were "kicked from." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

'Systematic dehumanisation': UN chief warns against 'ethnic cleansing' of Gaza after Trump's remark

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (July 5) sent Mossad Chief David Barnea to Qatar for talks with mediators on a Gaza war ceasefire that could see Hamas militants release hostages seized in the October 7, 2023 attack, the news agency AFP reported citing sources.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday (July 5) sent Mossad Chief David Barnea to Qatar for talks with mediators on a Gaza war ceasefire that could see Hamas militants release hostages seized in the October 7, 2023 attack, the news agency AFP reported citing sources. This development comes a day after Prime Minister Netanyahu called a meeting of his security cabinet to discuss new Hamas proposals sent through Qatari and Egyptian mediators. A source told AFP that Mossad Chief Barnea was expected in Doha on Friday and was to meet Qatar Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. Also read | Lebanon's Hezbollah launched 'explosive drones' at Israeli army positions in major attack Barnea's delegation "is travelling to Qatar in a continuation of talks on a ceasefire and hostage deal. He will meet with the Qatari prime minister for discussions aiming to bring the parties closer to a deal in Gaza," the source added. Biden praises Israel's decision United States (US) President Joe Biden praised Israel's decision to send a delegation to Qatar. According to the White House, Biden spoke to Netanyahu and welcomed the decision to have Israeli negotiators "engage" with mediators in a bid "to close out the deal." A senior US official told AFP that Israel and Hamas have a "pretty significant opening" to reach an agreement on a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Israel evaluating Hamas' idea for potential truce deal Hamas has demanded an end to the war and an Israeli withdrawal as a prelude to any hostage deal. However, Israel has countered that there can be no end to the war without the release of hostages. On Wednesday, the Palestinian militant group sent new ideas for a potential deal and Netanyahu's office said the government was "evaluating" them. Both the warring factions have been under increased international pressure to agree to a ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

Gaza war: Netanyahu sends Mossad chief to Qatar for hostage negotiations

Hamas said on Monday (May 6) that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, hours after Israel announced a plan to evacuate 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah, hinting at starting its offensive after nearly seven months of war.

Hamas said on Monday (May 6) that it had accepted a Gaza ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar, hours after Israel announced a plan to evacuate 100,000 Palestinians from Rafah, hinting at starting its offensive after nearly seven months of war. Hamas did not share the terms of the truce formally, but a senior Hamas member Khalil al-Hayya said on Monday that the proposal includes a three-stage truce with the goal of a lasting ceasefire. Hayya divulged details to the Qatar-based Al Jazeera channel, stating that each phase would last 42 days. According to him, the deal includes plans for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and an exchange of hostages and prisoners. the deal would also guarantee the return of Palestinians displaced by the ongoing war, with the aim of a "permanent ceasefire". Also read: Israeli jets strike two Rafah areas ahead of ground invasion: Hamas Hamas's announcement came moments after the White House said that US President Joe Biden held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. In a statement published on its official website, the militant group said, "Ismail Haniyeh, head of the political bureau of Hamas movement, conducted a telephone call with the prime minister of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, and with the Egyptian intelligence minister, Mr Abbas Kamel, and informed them of Hamas's approval of their proposal regarding a ceasefire agreement." After the announcement, a senior Hamas official said that Israel must decide whether it accepts or "obstructs" a truce in Gaza. While speaking to the news agency AFP on condition of anonymity, the official said, "After Hamas agreed to the mediators' proposal for a ceasefire, the ball is now in the court of Israeli occupation, whether it will agree to the ceasefire agreement or obstruct it." Also read: Putin’s nuclear drills orders response to ‘unprecedented’ comments from West: Kremlin Meanwhile, the Times of Israel reported that Israeli officials have warned against accepting the announcement made by the Palestine-based militant group. Israel cautioned that the offer Hamas says it accepted is not the one it agreed to. Officials told networks Kan, 12 and 13 that the terms Hamas accepted are different to what Israel agreed to. The offer Hamas has accepted is apparently made unilaterally by Egypt. It is not being taken seriously in Jerusalem before the details are clarified, the networks mentioned. A senior Israeli official spoke to AFP, reiterating that it was not the "framework" Israel had previously agreed to, but he mentioned that the government was studying the proposal. "We have received the proposal and are reviewing it. It is not the framework that was agreed upon. We are examining it," the official told AFP on condition of anonymity. Celebrations were seen in the streets of Gaza after Hamas claimed to accept a ceasefire agreement. Watch this report: × Rafah evacuation order Despite Hamas saying it had approved the truce proposal, Israel's army late Monday reiterated its call for evacuations in Rafah. "We also call on residents this evening to evacuate," military spokesman Daniel Hagari said in a broadcast address after the Hamas announcement. Hagari added that "airforce aircraft targeted more than 50 terror targets in the Rafah area" throughout the day Monday. Fears are also looming over a possible invasion of Rafah, where more than one million people have sought refuge from months of Israeli bombardment, which will be catastrophic. Meanwhile, the UN rights chief said Monday that Israel's order for Palestinians to evacuate from eastern Rafah in Gaza is "inhumane" and warned that the offensive would push suffering and destruction beyond already "unbearable" levels. Volker Turk further said forcing hundreds of thousands of people to flee to areas with almost no access to aid for survival was "inconceivable". Biden-Netanyahu talks The White House also said that Biden "reiterated his clear position" to Netanyahu after Israel defied US warnings and told Palestinians to evacuate part of the southern Gaza city of Rafah. It added that Netanyahu, meanwhile, "agreed to ensure the Kerem Shalom crossing is open for humanitarian assistance for those in need". Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel cautions after Hamas says it accepts ceasefire proposal of Egypt and Qatar

A Hamas official on Sunday (May 5) said that the Palestinian Islamist Group's negotiators in Cairo left for Doha after the talks, aimed at brokering a truce deal in Gaza, ended in the Egyptian capital, as per news agency AFP reports.

"The meeting with the Egyptian intelligence minister has ended and the Hamas delegation is leaving for Doha for further consultations," said the official to the negotiations on the condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to publicly discuss the talks.

Hamas, in a separate statement, insisted that it maintained a "positive and responsible approach" towards the negotiations and said it was determined to reach an agreement.

The statement highlighted that the key demands of the group included "a complete end" to the ongoing war, withdrawal of Israeli troops "from the entire Gaza Strip, the facilitation of the return of displaced people, the intensification of relief efforts, the start of reconstruction and the conclusion of a prisoner exchange deal".

<h2>Hamas negotiators to return to Cairo on Tuesday</h2>

As per Egyptian state-linked media, the Hamas delegation will reportedly return to Cairo for more talks on the truce negotiation on Tuesday (May 5).

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"The Hamas delegation has left Cairo this evening (Sunday) for Doha in order to conduct consultations, and will return Tuesday (May 7) to conclude the negotiations" towards a truce in the war with Israel, said Al-Qahera News, a site linked to Egyptian intelligence services, citing an unidentified "informed source".&nbsp;

<h2>'Ending Gaza war now would keep Hamas in power,' says Netanyahu&nbsp;</h2>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 5) hardened his stance on the demands put forward by Hamas proposing an end to the war in Gaza in exchange for hostages, said that this would keep the Palestinian militant group in power.

However, he said that Israel was ready to halt the fighting in order to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, which according to media reports are still numbered over 130.

"But while Israel has shown willingness, Hamas remains entrenched in its extreme positions, first among them the demand to remove all our forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war, and leave Hamas in power," Netanyahu said.

"Israel cannot accept that."

(With inputs from agencies)

A Hamas official on Sunday (May 5) said that the Palestinian Islamist Group's negotiators in Cairo left for Doha after the talks, aimed at brokering a truce deal in Gaza, ended in the Egyptian capital, as per news agency AFP reports.

A Hamas official on Sunday (May 5) said that the Palestinian Islamist Group's negotiators in Cairo left for Doha after the talks, aimed at brokering a truce deal in Gaza, ended in the Egyptian capital, as per news agency AFP reports. "The meeting with the Egyptian intelligence minister has ended and the Hamas delegation is leaving for Doha for further consultations," said the official to the negotiations on the condition of anonymity as he was not authorised to publicly discuss the talks. Hamas, in a separate statement, insisted that it maintained a "positive and responsible approach" towards the negotiations and said it was determined to reach an agreement. The statement highlighted that the key demands of the group included "a complete end" to the ongoing war, withdrawal of Israeli troops "from the entire Gaza Strip, the facilitation of the return of displaced people, the intensification of relief efforts, the start of reconstruction and the conclusion of a prisoner exchange deal". Hamas negotiators to return to Cairo on Tuesday As per Egyptian state-linked media, the Hamas delegation will reportedly return to Cairo for more talks on the truce negotiation on Tuesday (May 5). Also read: Will not accept truce deal that doesn't completely end Gaza war: Hamas "The Hamas delegation has left Cairo this evening (Sunday) for Doha in order to conduct consultations, and will return Tuesday (May 7) to conclude the negotiations" towards a truce in the war with Israel, said Al-Qahera News, a site linked to Egyptian intelligence services, citing an unidentified "informed source". 'Ending Gaza war now would keep Hamas in power,' says Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday (May 5) hardened his stance on the demands put forward by Hamas proposing an end to the war in Gaza in exchange for hostages, said that this would keep the Palestinian militant group in power. However, he said that Israel was ready to halt the fighting in order to secure the release of hostages held captive by Hamas, which according to media reports are still numbered over 130. "But while Israel has shown willingness, Hamas remains entrenched in its extreme positions, first among them the demand to remove all our forces from the Gaza Strip, end the war, and leave Hamas in power," Netanyahu said. "Israel cannot accept that." (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas official says Cairo truce meeting ends, delegation to leave for Doha

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken urged Hamas to accept a truce in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to send troops into its far southern city of Rafah.

Washington has heightened pressure on all sides to reach a ceasefire -- a message pushed by Blinken, who was on his seventh regional tour since the Gaza war broke out in October.

An Israeli official told AFP that the government "will wait for answers until Wednesday night", and then "make a decision" whether to send a delegation to indirect talks being brokered by US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo.

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The Palestinian militant group said it was considering a plan for a 40-day ceasefire and the exchange of scores of hostages for larger numbers of Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas, whose envoys returned from Cairo talks to their base in Qatar, would "discuss the ideas and the proposal", said a Hamas source, adding: "We are keen to respond as quickly as possible."

Blinken put the ball squarely in Hamas's court.

"There is a very strong proposal on the table right now. Hamas needs to say yes, and needs to get this done," he said.

But analysts questioned whether Hamas would sign up to another temporary ceasefire like the week-long truce that saw more than 100 hostages released in November, knowing that Israeli troops could resume their onslaught as soon as it was over.

"I'm pessimistic about the option of Hamas agreeing to a deal that doesn't have a permanent&nbsp;ceasefire baked into it," said Mairav Zonszein, senior analyst on Israel-Palestine at the International Crisis Group.

Zonszein said the three countries brokering the truce talks had their own reasons for trying to bounce the warring parties into a deal.

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"The US and Egypt and Qatar all have very strong interests of their own, for various&nbsp; reasons, why they're trying very hard now to pressure both sides into agreeing to a deal."

"And I think they believe that if they're able to get an initial deal and a pause, that they can try to build on that," he said.

Rafah differences

Hours before Blinken landed in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu fired a shot across his bows, vowing to send Israeli ground troops into Rafah despite repeated US warnings of the potential for heavy casualties among the 1.5 million civilians sheltering in the city.

"We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there with or without a deal," the right-wing premier told hostage families, his office said.

Ahead of what promised to be a difficult meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Blinken too met privately with hostage relatives in Tel Aviv.&nbsp;

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In rare scenes for the top US diplomat, who has faced furore at home and abroad over the administration's support for Israel in its campaign against Hamas, Blinken was greeted outside his Tel Aviv hotel by Israeli demonstrators waving US flags.&nbsp;

Blinken told them that freeing the hostages was "at the heart of everything we're trying to do".&nbsp;

As per estimates, 129 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, 34 of whom are presumed dead.

Many of their families have expressed hope that US pressure may force Netanyahu to agree to a deal for their release.

More routes for aid

On the previous leg of his regional tour in Jordan, Blinken said a Gaza truce and the redoubling of aid deliveries went hand in hand.

A truce is "the most effective way to relieve the suffering" of civilians in Gaza, he told reporters near Amman.

Blinken saw off a first Jordanian truck convoy of aid heading to Gaza through the Erez crossing reopened by Israel.

"It is real and important progress, but more still needs to be done," he said.

UN agencies have warned that without urgent intervention, famine looms in Gaza, particularly in northern areas which are hardest to reach.

A US-built floating pier on Gaza's coast is expected to be completed later this week, said Cyprus, the departure point for the planned "maritime corridor".

Blinken said the pier would "significantly increase the assistance" but was not "a substitute" for greater overland access.

In northern Gaza's Beit Lahia, across from Erez crossing, 24-year-old farmer Yussef Abu Rabih was replanting plots he said had been "completely destroyed" by the fighting.

"We decided to return to farming despite difficult conditions and scarce resources" after suffering "severe hunger", he told AFP.

'Unbearable escalation'

The war started after Hamas's October 7 attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures.

Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,568 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory.

Washington has strongly backed its ally Israel but also pressured it to refrain from a ground invasion of Rafah, which is packed with displaced civilians.

Calev Ben-Dor, a former analyst for the Israeli foreign ministry and now deputy editor for specialised review Fathom, told AFP that Netanyahu's "Rafah comments likely have more to do with trying to keep his coalition intact, rather than operational plans in the near term".

The prime minister "is feeling the squeeze between the Biden administration" and far-right members of his government who have vehemently opposed the proposed truce, Ben-Dor said.

UN chief Antonio Guterres said an Israeli assault on Rafah would "be an unbearable escalation, killing thousands more civilians and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee". 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken urged Hamas to accept a truce in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to send troops into its far southern city of Rafah.

Top US diplomat Antony Blinken urged Hamas to accept a truce in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to send troops into its far southern city of Rafah. Washington has heightened pressure on all sides to reach a ceasefire -- a message pushed by Blinken, who was on his seventh regional tour since the Gaza war broke out in October. An Israeli official told AFP that the government "will wait for answers until Wednesday night", and then "make a decision" whether to send a delegation to indirect talks being brokered by US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo. Also read: NYPD removes pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University, arrests made The Palestinian militant group said it was considering a plan for a 40-day ceasefire and the exchange of scores of hostages for larger numbers of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas, whose envoys returned from Cairo talks to their base in Qatar, would "discuss the ideas and the proposal", said a Hamas source, adding: "We are keen to respond as quickly as possible." Blinken put the ball squarely in Hamas's court. "There is a very strong proposal on the table right now. Hamas needs to say yes, and needs to get this done," he said. But analysts questioned whether Hamas would sign up to another temporary ceasefire like the week-long truce that saw more than 100 hostages released in November, knowing that Israeli troops could resume their onslaught as soon as it was over. "I'm pessimistic about the option of Hamas agreeing to a deal that doesn't have a permanent ceasefire baked into it," said Mairav Zonszein, senior analyst on Israel-Palestine at the International Crisis Group. Zonszein said the three countries brokering the truce talks had their own reasons for trying to bounce the warring parties into a deal. Also read: Israeli forces will enter Rafah 'with or without' Gaza hostage deal "The US and Egypt and Qatar all have very strong interests of their own, for various reasons, why they're trying very hard now to pressure both sides into agreeing to a deal." "And I think they believe that if they're able to get an initial deal and a pause, that they can try to build on that," he said. Rafah differences Hours before Blinken landed in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu fired a shot across his bows, vowing to send Israeli ground troops into Rafah despite repeated US warnings of the potential for heavy casualties among the 1.5 million civilians sheltering in the city. "We will enter Rafah and we will eliminate the Hamas battalions there with or without a deal," the right-wing premier told hostage families, his office said. Ahead of what promised to be a difficult meeting with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Blinken too met privately with hostage relatives in Tel Aviv. Also read: Israel launches air strikes on Rafah killing at least 13 people In rare scenes for the top US diplomat, who has faced furore at home and abroad over the administration's support for Israel in its campaign against Hamas, Blinken was greeted outside his Tel Aviv hotel by Israeli demonstrators waving US flags. Blinken told them that freeing the hostages was "at the heart of everything we're trying to do". As per estimates, 129 Israelis remain captive in Gaza, 34 of whom are presumed dead. Many of their families have expressed hope that US pressure may force Netanyahu to agree to a deal for their release. More routes for aid On the previous leg of his regional tour in Jordan, Blinken said a Gaza truce and the redoubling of aid deliveries went hand in hand. A truce is "the most effective way to relieve the suffering" of civilians in Gaza, he told reporters near Amman. Blinken saw off a first Jordanian truck convoy of aid heading to Gaza through the Erez crossing reopened by Israel. "It is real and important progress, but more still needs to be done," he said. UN agencies have warned that without urgent intervention, famine looms in Gaza, particularly in northern areas which are hardest to reach. A US-built floating pier on Gaza's coast is expected to be completed later this week, said Cyprus, the departure point for the planned "maritime corridor". Blinken said the pier would "significantly increase the assistance" but was not "a substitute" for greater overland access. In northern Gaza's Beit Lahia, across from Erez crossing, 24-year-old farmer Yussef Abu Rabih was replanting plots he said had been "completely destroyed" by the fighting. "We decided to return to farming despite difficult conditions and scarce resources" after suffering "severe hunger", he told AFP. 'Unbearable escalation' The war started after Hamas's October 7 attack on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of Israeli official figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed at least 34,568 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory. Washington has strongly backed its ally Israel but also pressured it to refrain from a ground invasion of Rafah, which is packed with displaced civilians. Calev Ben-Dor, a former analyst for the Israeli foreign ministry and now deputy editor for specialised review Fathom, told AFP that Netanyahu's "Rafah comments likely have more to do with trying to keep his coalition intact, rather than operational plans in the near term". The prime minister "is feeling the squeeze between the Biden administration" and far-right members of his government who have vehemently opposed the proposed truce, Ben-Dor said. UN chief Antonio Guterres said an Israeli assault on Rafah would "be an unbearable escalation, killing thousands more civilians and forcing hundreds of thousands to flee". (With inputs from agencies)

Blinken urges Hamas to accept Gaza truce as he meets Israel leaders

West Asia is desperate to finalise a deal to de-escalate tensions in the region amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation and fears looming over the expansion of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with Egyptian sources revealing details about the US-drafted proposal for a temporary truce. While speaking to the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed news outlet, sources also mentioned a hostage release deal which is apparently currently being examined by Israel and Hamas. However, even as a positive outcome is awaited, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that a date has been set for an Israeli invasion of Rafah.&nbsp;

Israeli and Hamas teams reached Egypt on Sunday after CIA Director William Burns arrived on Saturday. Leaders from across the world, especially the United States, have been vying to reach a deal amid rising Palestinian civilian deaths. Truce calls intensified after the recent attack on aid workers, which killed seven.&nbsp;

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"There is no change in the position of the occupation (Israel) and therefore, there is nothing new in the Cairo talks. There is no progress yet," the Hamas official, who asked not to be identified, told Reuters.&nbsp;

So far in the six-month-long war, about 33,207 Palestinians have been killed, Gaza's health ministry said in an update on Monday. Most of the enclave's 2.3 million people are homeless and many at risk of famine.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-calls-israels-withdrawal-from-south-gaza-a-rest-and-refit-plan-says-biden-govt-frustrated-708781">Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations, says US</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Gaza War: Is Israel about to open a new front in the war with Iran?&nbsp;

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<h2>Invasion of Rafah&nbsp;</h2>

Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel has set a date for an Israeli invasion of Rafah, which is Gaza's last refuge for displaced Palestinians. He, however, didn't disclose that date.&nbsp;

"Today I received a detailed report on the talks in Cairo, we are constantly working to achieve our goals, first and foremost the release of all our hostages and achieving a complete victory over Hamas," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;

"This victory requires entry into Rafah and the elimination of the terrorist battalions there. It will happen - there is a date," he added.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

West Asia is desperate to finalise a deal to de-escalate tensions in the region amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation and fears looming over the expansion of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with Egyptian sources revealing details about the US-drafted proposal for a temporary truce.

West Asia is desperate to finalise a deal to de-escalate tensions in the region amid a deteriorating humanitarian situation and fears looming over the expansion of the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, with Egyptian sources revealing details about the US-drafted proposal for a temporary truce. While speaking to the Al-Araby Al-Jadeed news outlet, sources also mentioned a hostage release deal which is apparently currently being examined by Israel and Hamas. However, even as a positive outcome is awaited, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Monday that a date has been set for an Israeli invasion of Rafah. Israeli and Hamas teams reached Egypt on Sunday after CIA Director William Burns arrived on Saturday. Leaders from across the world, especially the United States, have been vying to reach a deal amid rising Palestinian civilian deaths. Truce calls intensified after the recent attack on aid workers, which killed seven. Also read: Israel kills senior Hezbollah commander in strike on southern Lebanon "There is no change in the position of the occupation (Israel) and therefore, there is nothing new in the Cairo talks. There is no progress yet," the Hamas official, who asked not to be identified, told Reuters. So far in the six-month-long war, about 33,207 Palestinians have been killed, Gaza's health ministry said in an update on Monday. Most of the enclave's 2.3 million people are homeless and many at risk of famine. Also read: Israel's withdrawal from south Gaza not indicative of new operations, says US Watch: Gravitas | Gaza War: Is Israel about to open a new front in the war with Iran? × Invasion of Rafah Netanyahu said on Monday that Israel has set a date for an Israeli invasion of Rafah, which is Gaza's last refuge for displaced Palestinians. He, however, didn't disclose that date. "Today I received a detailed report on the talks in Cairo, we are constantly working to achieve our goals, first and foremost the release of all our hostages and achieving a complete victory over Hamas," Netanyahu said. "This victory requires entry into Rafah and the elimination of the terrorist battalions there. It will happen - there is a date," he added. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Gaza truce talks remain stagnant, Netanyahu sets date for Rafah invasion

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Apr 6) released a statement saying that it has refused to "back down" from its demands for a Gaza truce deal.

However, it said that it would send its delegation for renewed talks on a ceasefire in Egypt's Cairo over the weekend.

"Hamas confirms its adherence to the position it presented on March 14 ... and we will not back down from this position," it said in a statement.

The group further reiterated its set of demands.

"The demands ... are complete ceasefire, withdrawal of the occupation forces from Gaza, the return of the displaced to their residential areas, freedom of movement of the people, offering them aid and shelter, and a serious hostage exchange deal," it said.

Hamas' statement came hours after US President Joe Biden urged an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-troops-recover-body-of-hostage-from-gazas-khan-younis-military-says-708410">Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says</a>

<h2>Biden calls on&nbsp;Egypt&nbsp;and Qatar to press Hamas on hostage deal&nbsp;</h2>

United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Apr 6) urged Egypt and Qatar to press the militant group to conform to a Gaza truce and hostage deal ahead of ceasefire talks in Cairo.

A senior Biden administration official said that the US president wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal."

Biden held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Apr 4) where the leaders discussed the hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden told Netanyahu to empower Israeli negotiators in Cairo so that the deal could be reached.

"This basic fact remains true: There would be a ceasefire in Gaza today had Hamas simply agreed to release this vulnerable category of hostages – the sick, wounded, elderly, and young women," the senior Biden official said.

"The onus is on Hamas to release the hostages and bring relief to the people of Gaza through a prolonged ceasefire," the official said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Apr 6) released a statement saying that it has refused to "back down" from its demands for a Gaza truce deal. However, it said that it would send its delegation for renewed talks on a ceasefire in Egypt's Cairo over the weekend.

Palestinian militant group Hamas on Saturday (Apr 6) released a statement saying that it has refused to "back down" from its demands for a Gaza truce deal. However, it said that it would send its delegation for renewed talks on a ceasefire in Egypt's Cairo over the weekend. "Hamas confirms its adherence to the position it presented on March 14 ... and we will not back down from this position," it said in a statement. The group further reiterated its set of demands. "The demands ... are complete ceasefire, withdrawal of the occupation forces from Gaza, the return of the displaced to their residential areas, freedom of movement of the people, offering them aid and shelter, and a serious hostage exchange deal," it said. Hamas' statement came hours after US President Joe Biden urged an "immediate ceasefire" in Gaza. Also read: Israeli troops recover body of hostage from Gaza’s Khan Younis, military says Biden calls on Egypt and Qatar to press Hamas on hostage deal United States President Joe Biden on Friday (Apr 6) urged Egypt and Qatar to press the militant group to conform to a Gaza truce and hostage deal ahead of ceasefire talks in Cairo. A senior Biden administration official said that the US president wrote letters to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, on the state of the hostage talks and "he urged them to secure commitments from Hamas to agree and abide by a deal." Biden held a telephonic conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Apr 4) where the leaders discussed the hostage negotiations and the round of talks in Cairo. White House national security spokesperson John Kirby said that Biden told Netanyahu to empower Israeli negotiators in Cairo so that the deal could be reached. "This basic fact remains true: There would be a ceasefire in Gaza today had Hamas simply agreed to release this vulnerable category of hostages – the sick, wounded, elderly, and young women," the senior Biden official said. "The onus is on Hamas to release the hostages and bring relief to the people of Gaza through a prolonged ceasefire," the official said. (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas says will not ‘back down’ on demands for Gaza truce deal

Israeli negotiators are likely to travel to Qatar on Sunday (March 17) as part of renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The move comes following Hamas' decision to abandon key ceasefire demands in what is being seen as a potential shift in the dynamics due to recent setbacks faced by the militant organisation in the blockaded Palestinian enclave.

<h2>How is Hamas stepping back from its previous&nbsp;demands?</h2>

While Hamas continues to demand the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for Israeli hostages, the organisation has softened its stance by dropping its insistence on a permanent ceasefire.

It has reportedly indicated a willingness to accept a 40-day initial pause in hostilities.

<h2>Gaza war: Hamas faces multiple setbacks&nbsp;</h2>

In recent days, Hamas raised calls for widespread protests during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which largely went unanswered. Additionally, tensions between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority (PA) aggravated after the latter appointed a new prime minister without consultation with Hamas.&nbsp;

Furthermore, Hamas has possibly lost Marwan Issa, its deputy military leader in Gaza.

Hamas's criticism of the Palestinian Authority for unilaterally appointing the&nbsp;prime minister underscores the deepening divisions within the Palestinian leadership. Fatah, the ruling party in the Palestinian Authority, has condemned Hamas's actions concerning the October 7 attack in southern Israel and has accused it of exacerbating tensions and neglecting national unity.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-verifying-if-hamas-military-leader-marwan-issa-was-killed-in-gaza-699109">Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza</a>

Analysts note that Fatah's criticism resonates with many Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, highlighting growing discontent with Hamas's leadership.

Health officials in Gaza reported a total death toll of 31,490 since the beginning of the Israeli offensive, with a majority being women and children.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel to send delegation to Qatar for fresh truce talks

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Meanwhile, the UN children’s aid agency, UNICEF, reported on Saturday (March 16) that acute malnutrition among babies in northern Gaza had doubled in February and that now one in three children under two years of age suffer&nbsp;from acute malnutrition, a staggering escalation from 15.6 per cent in January.

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Israeli negotiators are likely to travel to Qatar on Sunday (March 17) as part of renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Israeli negotiators are likely to travel to Qatar on Sunday (March 17) as part of renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The move comes following Hamas' decision to abandon key ceasefire demands in what is being seen as a potential shift in the dynamics due to recent setbacks faced by the militant organisation in the blockaded Palestinian enclave. How is Hamas stepping back from its previous demands? While Hamas continues to demand the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails in exchange for Israeli hostages, the organisation has softened its stance by dropping its insistence on a permanent ceasefire. It has reportedly indicated a willingness to accept a 40-day initial pause in hostilities. Gaza war: Hamas faces multiple setbacks In recent days, Hamas raised calls for widespread protests during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which largely went unanswered. Additionally, tensions between Hamas and the Palestinian Authority (PA) aggravated after the latter appointed a new prime minister without consultation with Hamas. Furthermore, Hamas has possibly lost Marwan Issa, its deputy military leader in Gaza. Hamas's criticism of the Palestinian Authority for unilaterally appointing the prime minister underscores the deepening divisions within the Palestinian leadership. Fatah, the ruling party in the Palestinian Authority, has condemned Hamas's actions concerning the October 7 attack in southern Israel and has accused it of exacerbating tensions and neglecting national unity. Also read | Israel ‘verifying’ if Hamas military leader Marwan Issa was killed in Gaza Analysts note that Fatah's criticism resonates with many Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, highlighting growing discontent with Hamas's leadership. Health officials in Gaza reported a total death toll of 31,490 since the beginning of the Israeli offensive, with a majority being women and children. Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israel to send delegation to Qatar for fresh truce talks × Meanwhile, the UN children’s aid agency, UNICEF, reported on Saturday (March 16) that acute malnutrition among babies in northern Gaza had doubled in February and that now one in three children under two years of age suffer from acute malnutrition, a staggering escalation from 15.6 per cent in January. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

Gaza war: Israel to take part in ceasefire talks in Qatar after Hamas steps back on key demands

Egypt was reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials&nbsp;as well as other mediators, on Sunday (Mar 10) to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan.&nbsp;

Citing sources, the Reuters news agency, reported that Egypt's contacts with Hamas and Israeli intelligence agency Mossad on Sunday were carried out under a mandate from the Egyptian presidency to bring the two sides' divergent positions together.&nbsp;

This development comes even as Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been attempting to reach an agreement for a ceasefire during Ramadan in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages, who were abducted during October 7 strikes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-canada-sweden-to-resume-funding-to-unrwa-but-still-taking-terror-allegations-seriously-698589">Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously</a>&nbsp;

The most recent round of discussions, which did not include Israel, ended this week in Cairo.

Israel's intelligence agency Mossad said on Saturday that efforts are being made to secure a deal on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. &nbsp;

David Barnea, who is Mossad chief, met on Friday with his US counterpart, CIA Director William Burns, to promote a deal that would see hostages released.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-president-isaac-herzog-attends-opening-of-holocaust-museum-in-amsterdam-amid-pro-palestinian-protests-698653">Israeli President Isaac Herzog attends opening of Holocaust museum in Amsterdam amid pro-Palestine protests</a>&nbsp;

In a statement, which was distributed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, Mossad said that US President Joe Biden said on Saturday that Burns remained in the region.&nbsp;

"Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," Mossad said in the statement.&nbsp;

Israel and Hamas, the militant Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave and has been locked in a war with Israeli forces since its deadly October 7 rampage in southern Israel, have traded blame over the apparent deadlock in talks in the run-up to Ramadan, which begins on or around March 10.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;US President Biden says 'Israel can't have 30,000 more Palestinians dead'&nbsp;

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<h2>First day of Ramadan this year&nbsp;</h2>

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declared Monday (Mar 11) as the first day of Ramadan this year. The UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon was spotted on Sunday evening.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Egypt was reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials as well as other mediators, on Sunday (Mar 10) to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan.

Egypt was reportedly in talks with senior Hamas and Israeli officials as well as other mediators, on Sunday (Mar 10) to relaunch talks for a Gaza Strip truce during Ramadan. Citing sources, the Reuters news agency, reported that Egypt's contacts with Hamas and Israeli intelligence agency Mossad on Sunday were carried out under a mandate from the Egyptian presidency to bring the two sides' divergent positions together. This development comes even as Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have been attempting to reach an agreement for a ceasefire during Ramadan in exchange for the release of Israeli hostages, who were abducted during October 7 strikes. Also read: Canada, Sweden to resume funding to UNRWA but still taking terror allegations seriously The most recent round of discussions, which did not include Israel, ended this week in Cairo. Israel's intelligence agency Mossad said on Saturday that efforts are being made to secure a deal on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. David Barnea, who is Mossad chief, met on Friday with his US counterpart, CIA Director William Burns, to promote a deal that would see hostages released. Also read: Israeli President Isaac Herzog attends opening of Holocaust museum in Amsterdam amid pro-Palestine protests In a statement, which was distributed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, Mossad said that US President Joe Biden said on Saturday that Burns remained in the region. "Contacts and cooperation with the mediators continue all the time to narrow the gaps and reach agreements," Mossad said in the statement. Israel and Hamas, the militant Islamist group that rules the Palestinian enclave and has been locked in a war with Israeli forces since its deadly October 7 rampage in southern Israel, have traded blame over the apparent deadlock in talks in the run-up to Ramadan, which begins on or around March 10. Watch: US President Biden says 'Israel can't have 30,000 more Palestinians dead' × First day of Ramadan this year The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has declared Monday (Mar 11) as the first day of Ramadan this year. The UAE's Moon-sighting committee said on Sunday that the crescent Moon was spotted on Sunday evening. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Egypt in talks with Hamas and Israel to restart ceasefire talks: Report

The US said Sunday (Feb 25)&nbsp;that Paris talks&nbsp;came to an "understanding" on a potential ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.

"Representatives of Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar met in Paris and came to an understanding among the four of them about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like," White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was quoted as saying by&nbsp;CNN.

Israeli media earlier reported that significant progress was made&nbsp;in marathon mediatory talks in Paris aimed at halting fighting between Israel and Hamas. According to media reports, Israel’s ‘war cabinet’ discussed the peace proposal late Saturday (Feb 24) and tacitly approved the deal. However, further negotiations will take place in Qatar. A ceasefire is likely to materialise before March 10, before the commencement of the Ramadan month, the reports said.

The Israel delegation, led by Chief of Mossad David Barnea and Director of Shin Bet, Ronen Bar, held discussions in Paris with officials from Cairo, the US, Qatar and Egypt.

<h2>Hamas ‘agrees to all demands’</h2>

According to Israeli defence ministry sources quoted by media reports, Hamas has agreed to all demands put forward by Israel, including releasing all hostages and handing over bodies of those who have died.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Rising malnutrition threatens children's lives in the Gaza Strip

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Israel has reportedly warned that should the deal collapse, its defence forces will double down on the ongoing ground offensive. In return, Israel has agreed to facilitate the rehabilitation of the Palestinians who are displaced from northern Gaza.

<h2>Details of draft ceasefire deal</h2>

Associated Press quoted a senior Egyptian official as saying that up to 40 women and elderly hostages could be released in return for up to 300 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women, minors and older people.

The truce is likely to last for six weeks, and the period will see the entry of hundreds of trucks to bring desperately needed aid into Gaza every day.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw2U8lI_3GsEuWiouncGoqym" data-ved="2ahUKEwiDv4f0q8aEAxVWcmwGHXsgAk0QxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-truce-hopes-revived-as-negotiators-in-paris-reach-outline-for-hostage-release-693563" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel-Hamas war: Truce hopes revived as negotiators in Paris reach ‘outline’ for hostage release</a>

Hamas maintains it will not release all hostages until the war in Gaza stops and Israeli forces withdraw from the territory. Hamas also wants several Palestinian prisoners, many of them militants, released, a demand vehemently rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

<h2>Hamas on latest peace proposal</h2>

The AP quoted Hamas as saying it was not involved in the latest proposal developed by the US, Egypt and Qatar. However, Hamas’ top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was in Cairo last week to discuss a ceasefire.

An earlier proposal from Hamas outlined an initial phase that resembles the reported draft agreement, which signals that the two warring sides might actually come to terms to stop the fighting.

(With inputs from agencies)

The US said Sunday (Feb 25) that Paris talks came to an "understanding" on a potential ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. "Representatives of Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar met in Paris and came to an understanding among the four of them about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like," White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was quoted as saying by CNN.

The US said Sunday (Feb 25) that Paris talks came to an "understanding" on a potential ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. "Representatives of Israel, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar met in Paris and came to an understanding among the four of them about what the basic contours of a hostage deal for a temporary ceasefire would look like," White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan was quoted as saying by CNN. Israeli media earlier reported that significant progress was made in marathon mediatory talks in Paris aimed at halting fighting between Israel and Hamas. According to media reports, Israel’s ‘war cabinet’ discussed the peace proposal late Saturday (Feb 24) and tacitly approved the deal. However, further negotiations will take place in Qatar. A ceasefire is likely to materialise before March 10, before the commencement of the Ramadan month, the reports said. The Israel delegation, led by Chief of Mossad David Barnea and Director of Shin Bet, Ronen Bar, held discussions in Paris with officials from Cairo, the US, Qatar and Egypt. Hamas ‘agrees to all demands’ According to Israeli defence ministry sources quoted by media reports, Hamas has agreed to all demands put forward by Israel, including releasing all hostages and handing over bodies of those who have died. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Rising malnutrition threatens children's lives in the Gaza Strip × Israel has reportedly warned that should the deal collapse, its defence forces will double down on the ongoing ground offensive. In return, Israel has agreed to facilitate the rehabilitation of the Palestinians who are displaced from northern Gaza. Details of draft ceasefire deal Associated Press quoted a senior Egyptian official as saying that up to 40 women and elderly hostages could be released in return for up to 300 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women, minors and older people. The truce is likely to last for six weeks, and the period will see the entry of hundreds of trucks to bring desperately needed aid into Gaza every day. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Truce hopes revived as negotiators in Paris reach ‘outline’ for hostage release Hamas maintains it will not release all hostages until the war in Gaza stops and Israeli forces withdraw from the territory. Hamas also wants several Palestinian prisoners, many of them militants, released, a demand vehemently rejected by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Hamas on latest peace proposal The AP quoted Hamas as saying it was not involved in the latest proposal developed by the US, Egypt and Qatar. However, Hamas’ top political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, was in Cairo last week to discuss a ceasefire. An earlier proposal from Hamas outlined an initial phase that resembles the reported draft agreement, which signals that the two warring sides might actually come to terms to stop the fighting. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Paris talks came to 'understanding' on possible truce, says US

An Israeli delegation that was in Paris returned to the country with noted optimism that a deal could be reached to temporarily pause the fighting in the Gaza Strip with the release of Israeli and foreign hostages.

An official cited by Israeli media said that an "outline of an agreement" was reached by the Israeli, American, Egyptian and Qatari representatives for a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza war sparked after October 7 when Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel and massacred around 1200 Israelis.&nbsp;

"There were good talks, there’s significant progress," Channel 12 quoted an official as saying. "We have a basis on which to build a plan and the negotiations."

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Over 10,000 children at risk of severe malnutrition: UNICEF

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The Haaretz newspaper quoted informed sources saying that the progress at the Paris summit will ensure that the ball is now in Hamas' court.

"Continuing progress is now up to Hamas," it quoted an unnamed foreign diplomat as saying.

The Israeli source cited by the media in the country claimed that the outline will first be presented to Prime Minister Netanyahu-led war cabinet for approval.

<h2>What will be the next stage of talks?</h2>

The next stage of the talks between the warring sides, according to the Israeli source, will focus on the potential release of the&nbsp;hostages held in Gaza in exchange for the Palestinian security prisoners.

The next stage of peace talks will also specify the duration of the truce and the IDF’s deployment when&nbsp;it is enforced.

<h2>What the Gaza truce will be like?</h2>

A Hamas source cited by the AFP confirmed the plan proposed a six-week pause in the conflict and the release of between 200 and 300 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 35 to 40 hostages still held by Hamas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israels-mossad-chief-in-paris-to-discuss-possible-truce-693515">Israel-Hamas war: Israel's Mossad chief in Paris to discuss possible truce</a>

Talks have also taken place in Egypt with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh. He left Cairo on Thursday (Feb 22).

The talks reportedly focused in particular on an end to Israeli "aggression", the return of displaced people, and a prisoner exchange.

<h2>Netanyahu says Hamas demands are 'bizarre'</h2>

Hamas demands&nbsp;a complete ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed the demands as "bizarre".

Netanyahu said that&nbsp;his government is open to a pause in the fighting but has vowed to press on until "total victory" and the complete decimation of Hamas.

At least 29,606 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since October 7, most of the deceased include&nbsp;women and children.

(With inputs from agencies)

An Israeli delegation that was in Paris returned to the country with noted optimism that a deal could be reached to temporarily pause the fighting in the Gaza Strip with the release of Israeli and foreign hostages.

An Israeli delegation that was in Paris returned to the country with noted optimism that a deal could be reached to temporarily pause the fighting in the Gaza Strip with the release of Israeli and foreign hostages. An official cited by Israeli media said that an "outline of an agreement" was reached by the Israeli, American, Egyptian and Qatari representatives for a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza war sparked after October 7 when Hamas militants stormed into southern Israel and massacred around 1200 Israelis. "There were good talks, there’s significant progress," Channel 12 quoted an official as saying. "We have a basis on which to build a plan and the negotiations." Also watch | Israel-Hamas war: Over 10,000 children at risk of severe malnutrition: UNICEF × The Haaretz newspaper quoted informed sources saying that the progress at the Paris summit will ensure that the ball is now in Hamas' court. "Continuing progress is now up to Hamas," it quoted an unnamed foreign diplomat as saying. The Israeli source cited by the media in the country claimed that the outline will first be presented to Prime Minister Netanyahu-led war cabinet for approval. What will be the next stage of talks? The next stage of the talks between the warring sides, according to the Israeli source, will focus on the potential release of the hostages held in Gaza in exchange for the Palestinian security prisoners. The next stage of peace talks will also specify the duration of the truce and the IDF’s deployment when it is enforced. What the Gaza truce will be like? A Hamas source cited by the AFP confirmed the plan proposed a six-week pause in the conflict and the release of between 200 and 300 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for 35 to 40 hostages still held by Hamas. Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Israel's Mossad chief in Paris to discuss possible truce Talks have also taken place in Egypt with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh. He left Cairo on Thursday (Feb 22). The talks reportedly focused in particular on an end to Israeli "aggression", the return of displaced people, and a prisoner exchange. Netanyahu says Hamas demands are 'bizarre' Hamas demands a complete ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed the demands as "bizarre". Netanyahu said that his government is open to a pause in the fighting but has vowed to press on until "total victory" and the complete decimation of Hamas. At least 29,606 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since October 7, most of the deceased include women and children. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: Truce hopes revived as negotiators in Paris reach ‘outline’ for hostage release

Hamas has now proposed a 135-day truce and hostage deal. This is in response to a US backed- Israel plan that reportedly included a six-week truce. The militant group has proposed a three-stage plan with each stage spanning over 45 days. Under the plan, the remaining hostages will be exchanged for around 1500 Palestinian prisoners. The deal also envisages flow of aid to Gaza, withdrawal of Israeli forces along with reconstruction of the besieged strip.

Antony Blinken discusses Hamas' truce deal with Israeli PM Netanyahu

Antony Blinken meets Israeli PM Netanyahu for talks on Gaza truce plan

US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns and Israel's Mossad chief David Barnea will meet with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the coming days for talks on a second potential hostage deal in the Gaza Strip, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Jan 25), citing sources.

A source told Reuters the meeting would take place in Europe this weekend. Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel will also participate in the meeting, a second source said.&nbsp;

Burns and Barnea had met Qatari officials on November last year, helping to broker a short-lived truce that saw more than 100 hostages freed from Hamas' captivity in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in&nbsp;Israeli jails.&nbsp;

<h2>Israel proposes 60-day pause in fighting: Source</h2>

Earlier, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that Burns had been helping the Biden administration with the hostage "deal that was in place and trying to help us pursue another one."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-67-of-arab-world-says-hamas-oct-7-attack-was-legitimate-679859">Israel-Hamas war: 67% of Arab world says Hamas’ Oct 7 attack was legitimate, poll shows</a>

A third source told Reuters on Thursday that Israel proposed a 60-day pause in the fighting during which more than 100 hostages would be released in phases, beginning with&nbsp;women and children. This would be followed by the release of civilian men, female soldiers, and the remains of hostages who died after being abducted by Hamas.

As per the source, Hamas last week proposed an end to the war, international guarantees that it would not start anew, and the release of all detainees held by Israel, including those who participated in its Oct 7, 2023 attack.&nbsp;

<h2>'There will be no ceasefire'</h2>

Since the conflict began, Israel has opposed a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. On Wednesday, Israeli government spokesperson Ilana Stein appeared to push back against media reports of a possible new mediated deal with Hamas under which fighting would be halted in exchange for a hostage release.

Also watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: US top officials to discuss Gaza war

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"Commenting on reported ceasefire agreements, Israel will not give up on the destruction of Hamas, the return of all the hostages, and there will be no security threat from Gaza towards Israel," Stein said.

"There will be no ceasefire. In the past, there were pauses for humanitarian purposes. That agreement was breached by Hamas," she added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns and Israel's Mossad chief David Barnea will meet with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the coming days for talks on a second potential hostage deal in the Gaza Strip, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Jan 25), citing sources.

US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director William Burns and Israel's Mossad chief David Barnea will meet with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in the coming days for talks on a second potential hostage deal in the Gaza Strip, the news agency Reuters reported on Thursday (Jan 25), citing sources. A source told Reuters the meeting would take place in Europe this weekend. Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel will also participate in the meeting, a second source said. Burns and Barnea had met Qatari officials on November last year, helping to broker a short-lived truce that saw more than 100 hostages freed from Hamas' captivity in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. Israel proposes 60-day pause in fighting: Source Earlier, White House national security spokesperson John Kirby told reporters that Burns had been helping the Biden administration with the hostage "deal that was in place and trying to help us pursue another one." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: 67% of Arab world says Hamas’ Oct 7 attack was legitimate, poll shows A third source told Reuters on Thursday that Israel proposed a 60-day pause in the fighting during which more than 100 hostages would be released in phases, beginning with women and children. This would be followed by the release of civilian men, female soldiers, and the remains of hostages who died after being abducted by Hamas. As per the source, Hamas last week proposed an end to the war, international guarantees that it would not start anew, and the release of all detainees held by Israel, including those who participated in its Oct 7, 2023 attack. 'There will be no ceasefire' Since the conflict began, Israel has opposed a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. On Wednesday, Israeli government spokesperson Ilana Stein appeared to push back against media reports of a possible new mediated deal with Hamas under which fighting would be halted in exchange for a hostage release. Also watch | Israel-Hamas War: US top officials to discuss Gaza war × "Commenting on reported ceasefire agreements, Israel will not give up on the destruction of Hamas, the return of all the hostages, and there will be no security threat from Gaza towards Israel," Stein said. "There will be no ceasefire. In the past, there were pauses for humanitarian purposes. That agreement was breached by Hamas," she added. (With inputs from agencies)

US, Israeli intelligence chiefs to meet Qatar officials to discuss second Gaza hostage deal: Report

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