WASHINGTON/DOHA – The United States has put forward a significant proposal aiming for a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, a plan that includes a phased release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The detailed initiative, reported by Reuters on Friday, May 30, 2025, is currently under review by the Palestinian militant group Hamas, which is expected to deliver its response shortly.
According to the proposal, the initial phase would see the release of 28 Israeli hostages, a figure that encompasses both individuals confirmed to be alive and those whose remains are held by Hamas. This critical first step is slated to occur within the first week of the ceasefire taking effect.
In a reciprocal move outlined in the US-backed framework, Israel would release 125 Palestinian prisoners who are currently serving life sentences. Additionally, the remains of 180 dead Palestinians would be returned as part of this initial exchange.
Key Details of the US Proposal
The proposal, designed to halt the intense conflict that has devastated Gaza for months, lays out a structured approach to de-escalation and humanitarian relief. The core element is the proposed 60-day cessation of hostilities, providing a crucial window for humanitarian aid delivery and the exchange processes.
A central feature of the plan is its robust guarantee mechanism. The proposal is explicitly guaranteed by US President Donald Trump and involves the continued facilitative roles of key mediators: Egypt and Qatar. Their involvement underscores the diplomatic weight behind the initiative and the international pressure for a resolution.
Humanitarian Aid Component and Phased Release
Beyond the exchange of captives and prisoners, the proposal directly addresses the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. It stipulates the increased provision of crucial aid to the besieged enclave, contingent upon Hamas agreeing to the ceasefire terms. This link between the halt in fighting and aid flow aims to ensure that humanitarian assistance can reach those in desperate need without impediment.
The plan also looks beyond the initial phase, outlining conditions for a more permanent end to the conflict. It is stipulated that Hamas would release the final 30 hostages it holds after a permanent ceasefire is established. This suggests a two-stage process, with the initial 60-day pause intended to build confidence and lay the groundwork for a more enduring peace.
Israel’s Stance and Hamas’s Deliberation
The White House confirmed on Thursday, May 29, 2025, that Israel has agreed to this US ceasefire proposal. This agreement from the Israeli side marks a significant development, indicating a potential path forward after numerous failed attempts at mediation.
The focus now shifts to Hamas’s decision. The Palestinian militant group informed Reuters that it is actively reviewing the plan. Sources close to the discussions anticipate that Hamas is expected to provide its formal response either on Friday or Saturday, May 30 or 31, 2025. The coming hours are therefore critical in determining the fate of this latest diplomatic push.
Implications and Way Forward
The potential agreement, if accepted by all parties, could represent the most significant breakthrough in halting the hostilities since the conflict began. Analysts suggest that the structured, phased approach, coupled with high-level guarantees, offers a different dynamic compared to previous, shorter truces.
However, significant challenges remain. Negotiating the specifics of the prisoner release lists, ensuring adherence to ceasefire terms, and establishing a sustainable mechanism for long-term stability in Gaza are complex undertakings. The international community, particularly the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, will likely need to maintain sustained diplomatic pressure and engagement to see the plan through.
The world watches closely as Hamas deliberates on a proposal that carries immense implications for the lives of hostages, prisoners, and the civilian population in Gaza, potentially offering a desperately needed pause in the nearly eight-month-long conflict.
