Hamas says it has accepted an Egyptian-Qatari cease-fire proposal to halt seven-month war with Israel.
Hamas issued a statement Monday saying its supreme leader, Ismail Haniyeh, had delivered the news in a phone call with Qatar’s prime minister and Egypt’s intelligence minister.
There was no immediate comment from Israel. President Joe Biden spoke to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to keep him informed about the status of cease-fire talks which were ongoing in Doha, Qatar, earlier in the day, according to the White House.
Recent Egyptian and Hamas statements suggest a phased cease-fire plan. Hamas would release hostages as Israel withdraws troops from Gaza. It’s uncertain if this meets Hamas’ demand for a complete Israeli withdrawal and an end to the war.
The announcement followed an Israeli military order for Palestinians in Rafah to evacuate ahead of a potential ground invasion. Israel views Rafah as Hamas’ final stronghold in Gaza. Despite this, its closest allies, including the United States, are working to prevent an invasion. Hamas’ announcement prompted celebrations in Rafah.
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