Qatar has stated that the majority of the ceasefire proposal
points recently agreed upon by Hamas were previously accepted by Israel,
indicating a significant overlap in the terms for ending hostilities. This
development comes amidst ongoing efforts to reach a ceasefire amid intense
conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Qatar's Reaction on the ceasefire proposal
As reported by Al Jazeera's Al Jazeera Staff on August 18,
2025, Qatar has confirmed that most of the terms recently accepted by Hamas in
a ceasefire proposal were actually agreed upon earlier by Israel. This
revelation underscores a shared ground in the negotiations despite the
prolonged conflict between the two sides.
The statement from Qatar arrives amid escalating violence in Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes and ground operations have intensified, leading to substantial casualties and widespread humanitarian distress. Israel has been conducting attacks on Gaza City, aiming to capture the territory’s largest urban centre. Meanwhile, Hamas has signalled readiness to return to negotiation tables following the proposal.
Human toll and urgency for ceasefire
According to Al Jazeera Staff reports, the death toll
resulting from Israeli strikes and forced starvation in Gaza has risen to
approximately 62,000 Palestinians. This devastating number highlights the
urgent need for ceasefire efforts and humanitarian relief.
Palestinian groups communicated to mediators their approval of the latest ceasefire proposal and expressed willingness to resume talks. Regional leaders, including Qatar's Prime Minister and Egypt's President, have publicly supported efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza.
Israel's position and ongoing military operations
Despite the ceasefire proposals, Israel has yet to formally respond,
and its military operations continue with notable casualties inflicted in
Gaza’s residential areas. Israeli forces have killed at least 26 people in
recent strikes as the conflict persists.
The international community remains involved, with various governments and organisations calling for an immediate halt to violence. Reports from major news outlets highlight the complex dynamics between humanitarian concerns and security objectives pursued by both sides.