URGENT UPDATE: Hamas officials confirm they have not received any U.S. peace proposal regarding the Gaza Strip, as the conflict escalates. This announcement coincides with intensified Israeli military operations in Gaza City, where fighting has surged over the past 24 hours.
According to reports from the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, Hamas was allegedly prepared to agree to release all Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. However, a Hamas official, speaking anonymously, stated, “Hamas has not been presented with any plan,” contradicting earlier claims.
On Friday, October 27, 2023, U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at a potential deal, stating, “It’s looking like we have a deal on Gaza,” but provided no specific details or timeline. This statement came as Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday.
The ongoing violence has resulted in 74 fatalities in Gaza over the last 24 hours, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. The Israeli military reported striking 120 targets across Gaza in its latest offensive. As the situation escalates, the military continues to urge residents of Gaza City to evacuate.
The humanitarian crisis deepens as the United Nations World Food Programme estimates that between 350,000 and 400,000 Palestinians have fled their homes since the start of intensified hostilities. However, hundreds of thousands remain trapped amidst the conflict.
Doctors Without Borders announced on Friday that they have suspended medical activities in Gaza City, stating that their clinics are surrounded by Israeli forces. They emphasized the critical danger faced by vulnerable populations, including infants in neonatal care and individuals with life-threatening illnesses.
The current conflict in Gaza began nearly two years ago following a Hamas-led attack that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the hostage-taking of 251 individuals. Since then, Israeli military actions have led to over 65,000 Palestinian fatalities and widespread displacement within the enclave.
As military operations continue, international observers are closely monitoring the situation. Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, revealed that proposals for a comprehensive 21-point Middle East peace plan were presented to leaders of multiple Muslim-majority countries earlier this week. The urgency of diplomatic efforts is heightened by the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
The Israeli government has remained silent on Trump’s comments regarding the ceasefire plan, raising concerns about their stance on potential negotiations as the conflict reaches critical levels.
As developments unfold, the world watches closely, urging a swift resolution to the ongoing violence. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving situation.
