Arab Mediators Push for Long-Term Truce in Escalating Israel-Hamas Conflict Amid Humanitarian Crisis
April 23, 2025
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated dramatically after a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of 251 individuals.
Since the outbreak of hostilities, Israeli military actions have reportedly led to over 51,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly among women and children, amidst claims of targeting militants.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has deteriorated significantly, with Israeli forces restricting access to food, fuel, and medical supplies, leading to widespread malnutrition among children.
Israel continues to oppose any arrangement that would allow Hamas to maintain influence or rearm in Gaza, insisting on the return of hostages before considering a ceasefire.
In response to the ongoing violence, Arab mediators, led by Egypt and Qatar, are negotiating a proposal for a long-term truce that includes a five to seven-year ceasefire and the release of all remaining hostages.
Hamas has expressed openness to a long-term truce supported by international guarantees, suggesting potential guarantors such as Russia, China, Turkey, and the United Nations Security Council.
Egypt's involvement in the negotiations has been encouraged by both Israel and the Trump administration, who believe Cairo can exert more effective pressure on Hamas compared to Qatar.
Turkey has also joined the negotiations, reflecting its significant regional role despite past tensions with Israel.
The proposed agreement includes a halt to military operations and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, aiming to alleviate the dire conditions faced by civilians.
The truce proposal suggests governance by a committee of politically independent technocrats, a condition that has been accepted by Hamas.
The Trump administration, involved in ceasefire negotiations, supports Israel's position and has encouraged Hamas to accept a temporary truce in exchange for the release of several hostages.
As part of the broader agreement, there is also an openness for reconciliation with the rival group Fatah.
Summary based on 6 sources
Get a daily email with more World News stories
Sources

The Boston Globe • Apr 23, 2025
Mediators work on proposal for long-term truce as Israeli strikes on Gaza kill 9
idfwo logo • Apr 22, 2025
Hamas delegation heads to Cairo as Egypt takes mediation lead in hostage talks