Netanyahu Unveils New Three-Phase Gaza Ceasefire Proposal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday outlined a new three-phase ceasefire proposal for Gaza during an address to the Knesset, presenting what he described as a path toward ending the fighting while securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.

According to the proposal, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, the plan would begin with temporary pauses in combat tied to hostage releases, followed by phased Israeli withdrawals from parts of Gaza and a significant increase in humanitarian aid deliveries. The final stage would require Hamas to disarm, a demand the group has repeatedly rejected in previous negotiations.

Netanyahu said the framework is intended to balance Israel’s security concerns with the urgent need to bring hostages home and ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The announcement comes after months of stalled talks and mounting international pressure for a breakthrough.

Palestinian officials responded cautiously, saying the proposal could open the door to renewed negotiations if both sides show flexibility. While major obstacles remain, the new plan has raised hopes that a diplomatic path may finally emerge after a prolonged and devastating conflict.