Egypt has proposed a two-week extension to the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas amid stalled negotiations, with plans for hostages’ release. However, Israel denies a delegation to Cairo, and tensions continue as humanitarian aid restrictions follow the suspension of negotiations. Hamas remains committed to cease-fire agreements, calling Israel’s actions violations of international law.
Egypt has proposed a compromise to extend the cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which has recently expired. This proposal, reported in the Qatari newspaper Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, aims to bridge gaps in negotiations and prevent renewed conflict. The new plan shortens the proposed truce from six weeks to two and includes provisions for the release of three living hostages and the bodies of three deceased individuals.
Israeli officials were initially expected to visit Cairo for discussions on this matter; however, an Israeli official later denied any such delegation was planned. Reports suggest that Israel is inclined to avoid military operations for the time being, although a formal agreement remains elusive. The last phase of the cease-fire allowed for humanitarian aid and the release of dozens of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Israel has suspended humanitarian aid and closed border crossings into Gaza due to stalled negotiations for an extension of the cease-fire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office indicated that this decision was made following Hamas’ refusal to accept the “Witkoff framework,” a U.S.-backed proposal for a temporary truce.
Hamas has rejected an Israeli proposal that included the release of five living hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, asserting that it violated previous agreements. The group has also condemned Israeli airstrikes, which reportedly killed four individuals in Gaza, suggesting that Israel had escalated tensions by blocking aid shipments. A Hamas spokesperson emphasized this decision as a violation of international law.
Despite current tensions, Hamas remains committed to pursuing a second phase of the cease-fire agreement, with official Mahmoud Mardawi stating that stability and the return of prisoners can only be achieved through the full implementation of the agreement.
The ongoing negotiations for a cease-fire extension between Israel and Hamas underscore the fragility of the current situation in Gaza. Egypt’s proposed two-week extension seeks to secure the release of hostages while addressing humanitarian concerns. However, Israel’s suspensions and Hamas’ rejections of proposals complicate efforts towards a lasting resolution. As tensions escalate, the regions’ stability remains precariously dependent on diplomatic efforts.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com