Hamas proposes seven-year truce amid growing conflicts in Gaza
- A new ceasefire plan has been proposed by Egyptian and Qatari mediators, aiming for a truce lasting five to seven years.
- Public sentiment against Hamas is growing in Gaza, with residents openly protesting and criticizing the group’s governance.
- The evolving dynamics suggest Hamas's grip on Gaza may be loosening as public frustration with both Hamas and Israel intensifies.
In Gaza, tensions continue to escalate following a significant attack by Hamas against Israel on October 7, 2023. This assault resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals, predominantly civilians, and the taking of 251 hostages back to Gaza. In response, Israel initiated a large-scale military operation which has reportedly killed over 51,240 Palestinians, according to reports from Gaza's health ministry, signalling a dire humanitarian crisis in the region. As the conflict endured, a senior Palestinian official revealed a proposal from mediators in Qatar and Egypt suggesting a ceasefire lasting between five to seven years. This proposition includes terms such as the return of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, an official conclusion to the ongoing war, and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Despite the ongoing negotiations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the war would not cease until Hamas is defeated and all hostages are returned, expressing a tough stance against any concessions to the militant group. Recent developments indicate a potential shift in public sentiment within Gaza, where citizens are increasingly voicing their dissatisfaction with Hamas's governance. Citizens no longer seem intimidated by the group's authority and are criticizing its actions both on the streets and through social media. Protests against Hamas highlight a rising defiance amidst the backdrop of relentless bombardment by Israel, with Gazans holding both parties accountable for their predicament. Hamas, which has maintained control over Gaza for nearly two decades, appears to be experiencing some decline in its influence as protests gain momentum. Civilians, exacerbated by years of conflict and despair, are beginning to demand accountability. Hamas has even signalled a willingness to transfer governance to an alternative Palestinian authority, such as the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority, should it be mutually agreed upon, further complicating the political landscape in the region.