A new U.S.-backed proposal aims to broker a ceasefire and hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas, according to multiple Israeli media reports.
The deal would see the release of nine live hostages and the return of 18 bodies held by Hamas — one fewer live hostage than a previous offer. The release would occur in two batches over one week.
In return, Israel would agree to a 60-day truce during which talks would continue toward a permanent end to the war. If no agreement is reached after the 60 days, Israel could either resume military operations or extend the ceasefire in exchange for more hostages.
A key point of contention has been Hamas’s demand for a deal that guarantees a permanent ceasefire. Israel has rejected this, insisting the war won’t end until Hamas is dismantled.
The proposed plan would also see humanitarian aid coordination revert to the United Nations, and the IDF would pull back from areas it captured during its recent operations.
Some outlets cite unnamed Israeli officials confirming that the government has received the U.S. proposal. Details on whether Palestinian prisoners would be released remain unclear.
