GAZA - Efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are gaining momentum as mediators from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt embark on a diplomatic push. The move comes after Hamas responded positively to a proposal for an extended pause in fighting and the release of hostages.
The framework, initially drafted by U.S. and Israeli intelligence officials during a meeting in Paris with Egyptian and Qatari counterparts, received a favorable response from Hamas. While specifics of the response remain undisclosed, Hamas affirmed its commitment to a comprehensive ceasefire, ending aggression against Palestinians, facilitating relief efforts, reconstructing Gaza, lifting the siege, and negotiating a prisoner swap.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, currently on a whirlwind tour of the Middle East, expressed optimism about the prospects for an agreement. He plans to discuss Hamas's response with Israeli officials during his upcoming visit to the country.
Qatar characterized Hamas's response as positive overall, with Egyptian sources noting the group's flexibility. Diaa Rashwan, head of Egypt's State Information Service, emphasized the need for continued discussions to finalize the ceasefire framework promptly.
The proposed truce, speculated to last at least 40 days, would involve the release of remaining hostages held by Hamas, followed by subsequent phases addressing the handover of soldiers and deceased hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody. Additionally, the ceasefire aims to enhance humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza's vulnerable population grappling with food shortages and other essentials.
While U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged Hamas's willingness to engage in negotiations as a sign of progress, the ultimate success of the ceasefire remains uncertain. Both Hamas and Israel maintain steadfast positions, with Hamas linking hostage releases to the cessation of Israeli military operations in Gaza and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisting on Hamas's elimination.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reiterated its stance on diplomatic relations with Israel, citing the recognition of an independent Palestinian state on 1967 borders and an end to Israeli aggression in Gaza as prerequisites.
As ceasefire talks intensify, concerns mount over the fate of hostages in Gaza. Israeli military reports suggest that up to 50 hostages may have perished, while approximately 80 remain alive. Israel initiated its offensive following a deadly attack by Gaza militants, which claimed the lives of 1,200 individuals and led to the abduction of 253 hostages in southern Israel.
In Gaza, Israeli forces continue to target key areas, including Khan Younis and Rafah, resulting in civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The prospect of further military incursions into Rafah raises alarm among aid agencies, warning of dire consequences for the displaced civilian population along the Egyptian border.