Mediators to present new Gaza truce proposal addressing key demands of both sides Saudi media reports

A new compromise initiative aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas is set to be presented by international mediators in the coming days, according to a report by Asharq, citing informed sources.

The proposal is described as balanced, incorporating demands from both parties and offering a framework for long-term stabilisation in Gaza.

At the heart of the draft is a call for a complete cessation of hostilities lasting five years, along with a full withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) from the Gaza Strip. In exchange, all Israeli hostages held in Gaza would be released by Hamas in return for an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The plan also outlines the lifting of the blockade imposed on Gaza and the launch of comprehensive reconstruction efforts in the war-ravaged enclave.

The document further addresses Israeli concerns regarding weapons in Gaza. Under the proposal, Israeli security requirements related to armed groups would be met, while Hamas would not play a role in the governance of Gaza. Instead, administrative authority would be transferred to a technocratic cabinet consisting of 15 members not affiliated with any Palestinian political movement. This body would oversee both governance and reconstruction.

Additionally, the plan includes a provision to restart the broader Palestinian national reconciliation process, which has remained stalled amid divisions between major political factions.

The proposal comes as the conflict, which reignited after a brief ceasefire, continues to inflict a heavy toll on Gaza. The war escalated dramatically on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a large-scale cross-border attack into Israel, killing civilians and taking hostages. In response, Israel began a massive military operation aimed at dismantling Hamas' infrastructure and rescuing the captives.

According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 51,000 Palestinians have been killed since the onset of the hostilities, with approximately 117,000 more wounded. Although a ceasefire was brokered in January 2025, fighting resumed on March 18 after Hamas rejected a deal proposed by international mediators, including US Special Envoy Steven Witkoff. The Israeli government has stated that the renewed military campaign is intended to free the remaining hostages.

Hamas and its affiliated groups, meanwhile, have accused Israel and the United States of being responsible for the breakdown of peace efforts and the continuation of the war.

By Tamilla Hasanova