Egypt has proposed a two-week extension of the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, allowing for the release of three hostages. This comes amid stalled negotiations and heightened tensions following the cessation of humanitarian aid by Israel. Hamas has rejected an Israeli proposal, asserting commitment to implementing their cease-fire agreement amid ongoing hostilities in Gaza.
Egypt has proposed a compromise to extend the recently expired first phase of the cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas in an attempt to facilitate negotiations and avert renewed hostilities. According to reports from Egyptian sources communicated to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, the proposal includes a two-week extension of the truce, allowing the release of three living hostages and the return of the bodies of three others. Additionally, Israeli officials reportedly considered sending a delegation to Cairo for further talks, but this was denied by an official statement from Israel.
The initial phase of the cease-fire enabled the release of numerous hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and facilitated humanitarian aid access to Gaza. However, as negotiations for a continuation stalled, Israel ceased humanitarian aid provision and closed all border crossings into the region. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office expressed that this decision was a direct response to Hamas’ rejection of the proposed “Witkoff framework,” a U.S.-backed initiative aimed at establishing a temporary truce.
Hamas has likewise dismissed an alternate Israeli proposal which involved releasing five living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and enhanced humanitarian support, branding it a violation of existing agreements. As the situation remains tense, violent incidents persist; Israeli drone strikes reportedly killed four individuals in Gaza, targeting suspects allegedly setting explosives near Israeli troops. The Israeli Defense Forces have stated their commitment to neutralizing any threats against Israeli citizens.
Hamas condemned Israel’s blockade on aid shipments, stating that such actions represent “the occupation’s ugly face” and constitute a breach of international law. A Hamas spokesperson emphasized that Israel is effectively attempting to starve the people of Gaza. Despite the ongoing tensions, Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi reiterated the group’s commitment to continuing the cease-fire negotiations, underscoring that achieving stability and the return of prisoners necessitates adherence to the previously established agreement.
In conclusion, Egypt is facilitating a proposal aimed at extending the cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas to mitigate the risk of escalating violence. Both parties continue to grapple with complex negotiations, reflected in stalled humanitarian aid and ongoing hostilities. Tensions on the ground escalate, while Hamas insists on adherence to existing agreements for a sustainable resolution.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
