Hamas has called for amendments to the U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal for Gaza, sparking a fiery response from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, who labeled the group’s demands as 'totally unacceptable.' The diplomatic standoff threatens to derail efforts to pause a conflict that has claimed over 54,000 lives since October 2023. 💔
The Sticking Points
The U.S. plan proposes a 60-day truce, the release of 28 hostages held by Hamas, and the exchange of 1,200 Palestinian prisoners. But Hamas wants a permanent ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and guarantees of expanded humanitarian aid. Israel, meanwhile, insists on Hamas’ disarmament and the unconditional release of all hostages. 🔄
Humanitarian Toll
Gaza’s health authorities report over 4,100 deaths since fighting resumed in March, with aid access severely restricted. Witkoff urged Hamas to accept the framework 'as the basis for talks,' but senior Hamas official Basem Naim accused the U.S. of 'complete bias' toward Israel. 🚨
What’s Next?
Israel’s military warns of intensified operations in northern Gaza, while Defense Minister Israel Katz issued a blunt ultimatum: 'Accept the deal or be destroyed.' With previous ceasefires collapsing, hopes for peace hang by a thread. 🌐
