Ceasefire Calculations: Israel and Hamas Weigh the Costs of Peace

Israel is considering Hamas' response to a Gaza ceasefire proposal involving a 60-day truce, the release of hostages, and prisoner exchanges. Mediators Egypt and Qatar push for talks as Israel plans an offensive in Gaza City. Domestic pressure grows for resolution as humanitarian conditions worsen in Gaza.

In a pivotal move, Israel is assessing Hamas' stance on a ceasefire proposal for a 60-day truce, accompanied by the release of half the hostages held in Gaza, according to two Israeli officials. Though the discussions are preliminary, there's an insistence that all Israeli captives must be returned for any resolution.

Energetic mediation led by Egypt and Qatar aims to restart indirect negotiations over a US-endorsed ceasefire framework. This initiative includes freeing 200 Palestinian detainees in Israel and an unspecified number of incarcerated women and minors, in exchange for living and deceased hostages in Gaza, according to a source within Hamas.

The humanitarian situation in Gaza is acquiring critical attention, with Israel's potential plans to seize Gaza City causing international alarm. Despite ongoing military operations resulting in Palestinian casualties, significant protests in Israel have prompted calls for decisive steps toward peace and the liberation of remaining hostages.

(With inputs from agencies.)