Egypt has proposed a two-week ceasefire extension with Hamas contingent upon releasing three living and three deceased hostages. Israel is ready to implement the proposal during Ramadan and Passover. However, Hamas has rejected the offer. Concurrently, Israel has conducted airstrikes in Gaza, resulting in casualties amidst heightened tensions.
Egypt has proposed a deal involving Hamas, which includes the release of three living hostages along with three deceased individuals in exchange for a two-week extension of the current ceasefire agreement. This initiative arises following the expiration of the initial 42-day hostage-ceasefire deal on March 1. Israel has expressed readiness to implement this extension as proposed by US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, coinciding with the observances of Ramadan and Passover.
The terms of this proposal stipulate that on the initial day, half of the living hostages alongside the remains of deceased hostages would be released. Should a permanent ceasefire agreement be established by the end of the proposed extension, the remaining hostages would also be freed. Despite these negotiations, Hamas has thus far rejected the framework.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdel Ati, emphasized the urgency of initiating rapid negotiations for this second phase of the ceasefire deal. He also indicated that Egypt is formulating plans for the reconstruction of Gaza, which will be presented at an impending Arab emergency summit. Additionally, he asserted the importance of ensuring that humanitarian aid is not weaponized for collective punishment.
On another note, Israeli forces conducted strikes in northern Gaza targeting individuals suspected of laying explosives near Israeli troops. Reports from Palestinian media indicated that these operations resulted in the deaths of four individuals in Beit Hanun, without clear distinction between the suspects and innocent bystanders. This action highlights ongoing tensions and the volatility of the situation in the region.
In summary, Egypt’s proposal for a ceasefire extension includes stipulated terms for the release of hostages, aiming to facilitate a more durable peace solution. Nonetheless, the status remains uncertain as Hamas has yet to accept the proposal while humanitarian concerns continue to be voiced amid ongoing military actions. Negotiations for reconstruction and humanitarian regulations are critical components alongside the efforts for peace during this tense period.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
