Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar. The proposal involves a phased approach, including a week-by-week release of Israeli hostages. Ongoing Israeli military operations continue to cause casualties in Gaza, even as negotiations for a more permanent ceasefire proceed amidst significant loss of life since the outbreak of conflict.
Hamas has agreed to a ceasefire proposal from mediators Egypt and Qatar, as stated by Khalil al-Hayya, the chief of Hamas, during a televised address. He noted, “Two days ago, we received a proposal from the mediators in Egypt and Qatar. We dealt with it positively and accepted it.” Hayya expressed hope that Israel would respect the ceasefire initiative.
Security sources indicated that Egypt has received encouraging signals from Israel regarding a new ceasefire proposal, which includes a gradual release of five Israeli hostages each week. The Israeli Prime Minister’s office confirmed consultations based on this proposal and mentioned sending a counterproposal in collaboration with the United States, though they declined to comment on their agreement to the ceasefire.
The ceasefire’s first phase began on January 19 after 15 months of conflict and included a pause in hostilities and the release of hostages by Hamas. The second phase aims to negotiate the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Hamas insists that all proposals must allow a transition to this phase, while Israel proposes extending the initial 42-day ceasefire period.
In reaction to calls for disarmament from Israel and the U.S., Hayya emphasized that Hamas’s arsenal is non-negotiable as long as the Israeli occupation continues. Meanwhile, Israeli military operations persisted within Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 Palestinians, as reported by health authorities.
Israeli forces have resumed military strikes and ground operations, escalating pressure on Hamas to release hostages. Following the initial attacks by Hamas that claimed over 1,200 lives and resulted in numerous abductions in October 2023, the offensive has led to over 50,000 Palestinian fatalities according to Palestinian officials.
Given the complexities of the situation, the ongoing talks and military actions highlight the difficulties in achieving a lasting ceasefire and addressing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
In summary, Hamas has accepted a ceasefire proposal mediated by Egypt and Qatar, while stressing the importance of its acceptance by Israel. The unfolding situation emphasizes the fragility of peace talks amid continued violence and significant loss of life. With both sides negotiating terms for future phases of the ceasefire, the potential for sustained peace remains uncertain as military actions persist in Gaza.
Original Source: www.theglobeandmail.com
