Sat May 31 16:38:14 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Hamas has responded to the latest U.S. ceasefire proposal for Gaza, seeking amendments, particularly on U.S. guarantees, hostage release timing, aid delivery, and Israeli troop withdrawal. Their statement mentions a permanent ceasefire, full Israeli withdrawal, ensured aid flow, and a hostage exchange (10 living, 18 deceased) for Palestinian prisoners. Israeli officials have approved the U.S. proposal for a temporary 60-day ceasefire involving a hostage-prisoner exchange and increased aid. President Trump indicates a deal is nearing completion.

**News Article:**

**Hamas Responds to U.S. Ceasefire Proposal for Gaza with Demands for Amendments**

**TEL AVIV – May 31, 2025** – Hamas has officially responded to the U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal for Gaza, indicating they are seeking several key amendments before agreeing to the terms. A senior Hamas official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the Associated Press that the group wants changes specifically related to U.S. guarantees, the timeline for hostage release, the scale of aid delivery to Gaza, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.

According to a separate statement from Hamas, the group’s overall objective is a permanent ceasefire, a comprehensive withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, and a guaranteed, uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid. The proposed deal would also involve the release of 10 living hostages and the bodies of 18 deceased hostages in exchange for an agreed-upon number of Palestinian prisoners currently held by Israel.

While Israeli officials have reportedly approved the U.S. proposal, which outlines a temporary 60-day ceasefire, significant hurdles remain in achieving a final agreement. The proposed ceasefire would pause fighting, allow for the exchange of some of the remaining 58 hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and facilitate the delivery of much-needed food aid and other essential assistance to the war-torn region.

U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that negotiators are close to finalizing the deal. However, Hamas’s request for amendments suggests further negotiations and compromise will be necessary to secure a ceasefire and potentially pave the way for a more lasting resolution to the ongoing conflict.

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