Report: Egypt puts forth new ceasefire framework
Israeli official said Jerusalem was not aware of the proposal, despite a report claiming that it received initial U.S. approval
Egypt has put forward a new proposal for the release of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip in a set timeframe, Reuters reported. An Israeli official said Jerusalem was aware of no such proposal.
According to the report, the United States has given its initial approval to the proposal which includes American guarantees.
Two Egyptian security sources told Reuters that Cairo had suggested setting a timeline for the release of the remaining hostages alongside a deadline for a full Israeli pullout from Gaza with U.S. guarantees.
Hamas and Israel were expected to respond to the Egyptian proposal by the end of the day, per Reuters.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said the military was intensifying its air, land and sea strikes and would move civilians to the southern part of Gaza.
Katz said Israel would continue its campaign until Hamas released more hostages and was totally defeated.
Israeli airstrikes inflicted serious damage on the jihadist group this week, killing its Gaza government chief and other top officials.