The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have announced a significant step towards ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza, unveiling a "bridging proposal" aimed at swiftly implementing a ceasefire and facilitating the release of Israeli captives.

In a joint statement issued on Friday, the three nations confirmed that ceasefire negotiations in Doha were both "serious and constructive," setting the stage for a potential resolution to the hostilities that have devastated the region.

The negotiations, which began on Thursday, come amid heightened concerns of a broader regional war following recent escalations, including the killing of a top Hezbollah commander in Beirut by Israeli forces and the assassination of Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran.

The mediators emphasized the urgency of moving forward without delays, reiterating their commitment to saving lives and reducing regional tensions. "The path is now set for that outcome, saving lives, bringing relief to the people of Gaza, and de-escalation of regional tensions," the joint statement read.

While specific details of the latest proposal were not disclosed, the mediators indicated that it builds upon a plan proposed by US President Joe Biden in May. This US-backed plan involves a multiphased approach to ending the conflict, starting with a six-week pause in fighting to facilitate the release of some Israeli captives held in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.

The second phase would involve a permanent cessation of hostilities and the release of all remaining captives. The final phase would focus on the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, which has been severely damaged by the ongoing war.

The statement concluded by noting that working teams will continue to finalize the technical aspects of the agreement in the coming days, including the specifics of implementing the ceasefire, humanitarian provisions, and the details surrounding hostages and detainees. (ILKHA)