A new US-backed proposal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza outlines a 60-day ceasefire and a significant prisoner and hostage exchange, according to details obtained by Reuters on Friday.
The plan calls for a truce to begin immediately after Hamas agrees to the terms. Within the first week of the ceasefire, 28 Israeli hostages — both alive and deceased — would be released in exchange for 125 Palestinian prisoners who have received life sentences, along with the return of the remains of 180 deceased Palestinians.
In addition to the exchange, the proposal prioritises humanitarian relief, calling for aid to be sent into Gaza as soon as Hamas formally approves the ceasefire. The move is intended to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in the territory, where civilian casualties and infrastructure destruction have mounted.
The proposed deal is part of broader efforts by the Trump administration and international mediators to de-escalate violence and lay the groundwork for a more durable peace. However, as with previous attempts, the success of the plan hinges on both parties agreeing to terms amid deeply entrenched mistrust and political divisions.
Officials hope the agreement will serve as a first step toward stabilising the region and opening the door for more comprehensive negotiations in the future.
Melissa Enoch
Follow us on:
