The Palestinian militant group Hamas has put forward a new proposal for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The proposal, submitted to mediators Egypt and Qatar, includes a plan for a significant prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel.

According to reports from Al Jazeera, Hamas is seeking the release of between 700 and 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 100 serving life sentences in Israeli jails. In return, Hamas would release women, children, elderly, and sick prisoners held by Israel.

This latest ceasefire proposal aims to halt Israel's aggression against Gaza and provide relief to Palestinians in the region, allowing displaced individuals to return to their homes. Hamas has described this as the initial phase of the agreement, with further steps to follow.

Mustafa Barghouti, secretary-general of the Palestine National Initiative, noted that Hamas' proposal demonstrates more flexibility compared to previous initiatives. In addition to the prisoner exchange, the proposal opens the door to discussions on a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed Hamas' demands as unrealistic. Netanyahu's office stated that the proposal is based on unrealistic expectations, and a briefing on the matter will be provided to the War Cabinet and Enhanced Security Cabinet.

Efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have faced challenges in recent weeks, with talks stalling over contentious issues. Previous ceasefire offers, including a 40-day proposal in February, have been rejected by Israel, which insists on continuing military action against Hamas.

Hamas initiated hostilities with Israel on October 7, resulting in casualties and the capture of hostages. The conflict has persisted for nearly six months, with significant loss of life reported by the Gaza Ministry of Health.

As diplomatic efforts continue, the region remains tense, with hopes pinned on finding a resolution to the longstanding conflict between Israel and Hamas.