A senior Israeli official said today that some of Hamas’ demands for a new hostage release deal cannot be met, according to Israel’s Channel 13 television.

According to the same source, the official, whom he did not name, said Israeli authorities would discuss whether to reject Hamas’ proposal outright or seek alternative terms.

Earlier today, according to reports, Hamas proposed a cease-fire plan that would see the guns in Gaza fall silent for four and a half months, during which time all hostages would be released, Israel would withdraw its troops from the Strip of Gaza and an agreement will be reached for an end to the war.

The Palestinian Islamist militant group’s proposal — a response to an offer sent last week by Egyptian and Qatari mediators — comes amid the biggest diplomatic push to date for a prolonged ceasefire.

Meanwhile, a government spokesman said today that Israeli officials are “thoroughly examining” a new Gaza truce proposal presented by Qatari negotiators.

“We have been briefed, we have been notified by Qatari negotiators. We are looking into it. The Mossad is thoroughly examining what was presented to us,” spokesman Avi Haiman told reporters.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to hold a press conference at 19:30 Greek time, according to a statement from the prime minister’s office.