Egyptian mediators have received encouraging signals from Israel regarding a new ceasefire proposal aimed at de-escalating the conflict in Gaza, according to security sources cited by Reuters. The proposed plan includes a transitional phase designed to facilitate the release of hostages and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region.

On Thursday, an Egyptian security delegation traveled to Qatar to engage in discussions focused on the release of hostages, the admission of humanitarian assistance into Gaza, and steps toward implementing the second phase of the ceasefire, as reported by Egypt’s state-affiliated Al Qahera news TV. The Egyptian initiative, introduced earlier this week, outlines a schedule where Hamas would release five Israeli hostages each week. Following the first week of releases, Israel would commence the second phase of the ceasefire agreement.

Both the United States and Hamas have reportedly expressed agreement with the proposal. However, Israel has yet to formally respond to the suggested terms.

This development follows the IDF resumption of military operations in Gaza earlier this month. The renewed hostilities have led to increased unrest among Gaza’s Palestinian population, with growing protests against Hamas’s governance.

In early March, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office announced a halt to the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. This decision came after the expiration of a previous hostage-ceasefire deal and Hamas’s rejection of further agreements. The Prime Minister emphasized that Israel would not agree to a ceasefire without the release of hostages, warning of consequences if Hamas continued its refusal.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community watches closely, hopeful that these negotiations will lead to a sustainable resolution and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.