Smoke Rising in Rafah: Hamas Accepts Cease-Fire Proposal Amid Israeli Strikes in Gaza

Rafah, a town in southern Gaza, is the site of smoke rising due to Israeli strikes during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Recent news suggests that Hamas has accepted an Egyptian-Qatari cease-fire proposal to put an end to the seven-month war. The announcement was made by Hamas’ supreme leader, Ismail Haniyeh, during a phone call with Qatar’s prime minister and Egypt’s intelligence minister. These two countries have been mediating talks between Israel and Hamas for months.

Israel has not yet commented on this development, but shortly after the announcement was made, they ordered Palestinians to evacuate Rafah in preparation for a military operation. Rafah is considered to be Hamas’ last stronghold in Gaza.

Details about the cease-fire proposal are scarce, but it is expected to take place in stages. The plan involves Hamas releasing hostages in exchange for Israeli troop pullbacks from Gaza. However, it remains uncertain whether this deal will meet Hamas’ demand for an end to the war and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The news of Hamas accepting the cease-fire proposal has sparked celebrations in Rafah as people cheer in the streets. This situation is still developing and more information is expected as negotiations continue.