The Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, announced Wednesday that it is still awaiting the Israeli regime's response to the proposal presented by mediators on August 18, which was accepted by Hamas and other Palestinian factions.

In its statement, the movement reaffirmed its readiness to conclude a comprehensive agreement under which all Israeli captives held by the Resistance would be released in exchange for an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. The proposed deal would end the brutal war on Gaza, secure the full withdrawal of occupation forces from the Strip, reopen border crossings to allow in all vital supplies, and launch reconstruction efforts for the devastated territory.

Hamas also reiterated its agreement to the formation of an independent national technocratic administration that would immediately assume responsibility for managing Gaza's affairs across every sector.

Protests in al-Quds

Meanwhile, protests erupted in occupied al-Quds as families of Israeli captives and their supporters organized what they called a "Day of Disruption," demanding an end to the war on Gaza and a prisoner exchange. Demonstrators gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's residence, the Knesset, and other government ministries. According to Yedioth Ahronoth, Israeli police detained 13 protesters, while fires broke out near Netanyahu's home after demonstrators set tires and garbage containers alight.

The families have repeatedly warned that prolonging the war directly endangers the captives. Their cause has gained momentum through nationwide rallies led by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, with the slogan "a deal or a death sentence" resonating widely.

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Mounting political pressure

Political opponents have seized on the growing unrest, accusing Netanyahu of deliberately obstructing a ceasefire and prisoner swap to protect his political survival. Opposition leader Yair Lapid charged that Netanyahu is "sabotaging negotiations" by imposing new conditions, while former general Yair Golan accused him of putting his own tenure above the lives of the captives and called for the government's ouster.

Even within the security establishment, dissent is rising. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir recently urged the cabinet to accept a partial deal, returning some captives in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire, warning that further escalation risks the lives of those still in Gaza. Netanyahu rejected the proposal, insisting that military pressure must continue.