Hamas confirmed on Thursday that it has responded to an Israeli proposal for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, marking a significant development in the ongoing negotiations.

The Palestinian militant group revealed through a statement on Telegram that it had submitted its response and that of the involved Palestinian factions to the mediators.The response includes proposed amendments concerning the entry of aid into Gaza, the mapping of areas from which the Israeli army should withdraw, and securing a permanent end to the conflict, as per sources familiar with the discussions in Doha.

The indirect talks in Qatar, involving negotiators from both sides and mediators, aimed to reach an agreement on a truce deal that would also involve the release of Israeli hostages.Out of the 251 hostages taken during Hamas's 2023 attack, approximately 49 remain held in Gaza, including 27 whom the Israeli military confirms are deceased.

Despite ongoing negotiations for more than two weeks, no breakthrough has been achieved, with each side accusing the other of refusing to compromise on key demands.Israel emphasizes the dismantling of Hamas's military and governing capabilities as non-negotiable conditions.

In contrast, Hamas seeks firm guarantees for a lasting truce, complete Israeli troop withdrawal, and the unimpeded flow of aid into Gaza.

David Mencer, an Israeli government spokesman, accused Hamas of obstructing the talks, stating that Israel has agreed to both the Qatari and updated US proposals but encountered resistance from Hamas.The United States announced plans for special envoy Steve Witkoff to travel to Europe this week for discussions on a possible ceasefire and aid corridor.

The situation in Gaza remains dire, as over 100 aid organizations warned of spreading 'mass starvation' within the region.