Egypt has proposed a two-week ceasefire extension involving the release of six hostages—three living and three deceased. This initiative comes after Hamas rejected a separate ceasefire proposal. Egypt continues to seek a full Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor and emphasizes the importance of humanitarian access. The foreign minister has called for immediate negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, addressing both humanitarian and reconstruction needs in Gaza.
Egypt has proposed a two-week extension of the current ceasefire, contingent upon the release of six hostages—three living and three deceased. This proposal follows the expiration of the initial ceasefire without negotiated progress towards a subsequent phase. Reports indicate that the Egyptian initiative seeks to address gaps between Israel and Hamas, with a potential Israeli delegation traveling to Cairo for discussions.
Following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s acceptance of a ceasefire framework suggested by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, Hamas rejected the plan, labeling it as a failure to engage in serious negotiations for the next phase. If accepted, the framework would have facilitated the initial release of hostages, contingent upon reaching a formal agreement for a permanent ceasefire.
Egypt’s foreign minister has emphasized the necessity of complete adherence to the ceasefire agreement’s terms, advocating for expedited negotiations for its second phase. Additionally, he asserted Egypt’s commitment to a full Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor in exchange for a U.S. security initiative at the Gaza border.
The Egyptian plan for Gaza’s reconstruction awaits approval from Arab leaders before presentation, with the minister expressing hope for necessary EU cooperation to maintain the ceasefire. He underscored that aid must not serve as a tool of collective punishment, stating that limiting access to humanitarian supplies would violate international humanitarian law.
Overall, Egypt is working steadfastly to facilitate negotiations towards a second phase of the ceasefire agreement, while also addressing humanitarian and reconstruction efforts vital for Gaza’s recovery.
In summary, Egypt’s proposal for a two-week ceasefire extension aims to enhance negotiations between Israel and Hamas over hostage release and subsequent phases of the agreement. The urgency for humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza is highlighted, alongside Egypt’s commitment to advocating for international standards in aid distribution. This demonstrates Egypt’s strategic position in facilitating dialogue and ensuring compliance with humanitarian laws amid ongoing tensions.
Original Source: allisrael.com
