Israel-Hamas Peace Negotiations Intensify Amid Continued Gaza City Operations

New Peace Proposal Emerges

A significant development has emerged in the Israel-Hamas conflict, with a reported deal proposing the release of all hostages on the first day of a truce, followed by discussions to end the war. While US President Biden has indicated Israel’s agreement to the terms, sources close to Netanyahu suggest he is still weighing the deal.

Current Military Situation

The situation in Gaza City remains critical, with UNICEF warning of a potential catastrophe for the nearly one million people still in the area. The UN children’s organization has issued an urgent alert about the implications of an intensified military offensive in the region.

Israel has put forward a hostage deal proposal that deviates from Prime Minister Netanyahu’s previously stated principles. These principles, adopted by the cabinet on August 8, include the disarmament of Hamas, the simultaneous release of all remaining hostages, Gaza Strip demilitarization, Israeli security control, and the establishment of an alternative civilian government.

International Involvement

US envoy Steve Witkoff has presented a proposal suggesting that Hamas release all hostages upfront in exchange for the release of thousands of Palestinians from Israeli jails, along with US assurances preventing Israel from resuming the war.

Economic Developments

Amid the conflict, Israel and India have signed a significant bilateral agreement to facilitate mutual investment flows and encourage economic cooperation. The bilateral investment treaty (BIT) was signed in New Delhi, marking a historic first as Israel becomes the first Western-oriented OECD economy to establish such an agreement with India.

Humanitarian Concerns

The humanitarian situation in Gaza City continues to deteriorate, with UNICEF reporting widespread malnutrition and famine weakening children’s bodies as displacement strips them of shelter and care. According to their spokesperson, evidence of famine in a war zone was visible throughout Gaza City.