Hamas said it was considering a new framework for a truce proposed during the latest round of negotiations in Cairo, as Palestinians returning to southern Gaza confronted the extent of destruction left after Israeli troops’ withdrawal, AFP reports.

Six months into the bloodiest Gaza crisis, Qatari, Egyptian and American mediators have proposed another temporary ceasefire, according to a Hamas source.

The three-part proposal would halt fighting for six weeks to facilitate an exchange of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners in Israel.

Saying it “appreciates” the mediators’ efforts, Hamas accused Israel of not responding to any of its demands during the talks.

“Despite this, the movement’s leadership is studying the submitted proposal,” the group said in a statement.

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