The Israeli Government has rejected the latest proposal for a ceasefire and release of hostages in the Gaza Strip.
According to local media reports, a senior Israeli official said the proposal “cannot be accepted by any responsible government.”
The proposal, made by a Palestinian-American businessman reportedly involved in direct negotiations with Hamas, involves a 70-day ceasefire to allow both sides to conduct negotiations on an end to the war.
Under the proposal, Hamas would release five living hostages and the bodies of a further five from Gaza.
An Israeli official said the draft was “far removed” from the proposal drawn up by U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, which provides for the release of 10 living hostages in exchange for 45 to 60 days of ceasefire.
According to Israeli sources, at least 20 hostages are still being held alive in the Gaza Strip, with the fate of three further abductees unclear.
Hamas is also holding the bodies of 35 hostages abducted from Israel during the October 7, 2023, attacks.
The Israeli official did not provide further details on why the proposal was rejected, but the rejection suggests ongoing challenges in negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
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