In its latest counterproposal for a ceasefire, Hamas on Monday demanded that Israel agree to an initial 12-week truce rather than 6, creating a major stumbling block in the talks. Three sources familiar with the discussions told CNN.
Israeli officials strongly oppose agreeing to a more extended truce because they believe it would be no different than deciding on an effective end to the war. A senior Biden administration official said Israel has made it clear it wants to reserve the right to destroy the four remaining Hamas battalions in Rafah.
