Conflict resolution in Gaza: Hamas expresses optimism towards the proposed truce initiative
In a significant development, Hamas has reportedly given a positive response to a ceasefire proposal for the Gaza Strip. The proposal, which is said to include a 60-day truce, has been under discussion for some time, with the United States playing a role in the talks.
## Key Terms and Conditions
The proposed ceasefire includes several key terms and conditions. It aims to secure the release of some Israeli hostages held by Hamas and facilitates negotiations between the two parties for a permanent ceasefire. However, the specific details of what Hamas and Israel have agreed upon are not fully disclosed.
## Hamas's Reservations
While Hamas has expressed readiness to begin proximity talks with Israel, there are reservations regarding the terms of the ceasefire. Hamas wants negotiations on a permanent ceasefire to continue until an agreement is reached, without conditions that could lead to the resumption of hostilities. The group also objects to the condition that requires negotiations to be conducted in good faith for the ceasefire extension, fearing it could be used to justify renewed conflict.
## After the 60-Day Ceasefire Expires
The ceasefire can extend beyond 60 days if both parties are negotiating in good faith. However, if negotiations do not advance, there is a risk of military escalation by Israel, as indicated by Israeli officials. The future of the ceasefire and any potential permanent agreement will depend on the progress of negotiations during and after the 60-day period.
In summary, while Hamas has responded positively to the proposal, there are significant hurdles to overcome, particularly regarding the conditions for extending the ceasefire and the framework for permanent ceasefire negotiations. The Arabic-language channel al-Arabiya reported this information.
The ceasefire proposal could help facilitate an agreement with Israel, according to a Hamas representative. However, Hamas demands an agreement that effectively ends the war. The plan includes the release of ten Israeli hostages and the handover of 18 bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The specifics of these exchanges are yet to be confirmed.
[1] Al-Arabiya, (2021). Hamas accepts Israel's conditions for Gaza ceasefire, but with reservations. [online] Available at: https://english.alarabiya.net/News/middle-east/2021/05/18/Hamas-accepts-Israel-s-conditions-for-Gaza-ceasefire-but-with-reservations [2] BBC News, (2021). Gaza ceasefire: Hamas says it has agreed to US-brokered deal. [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-57104447 [3] Reuters, (2021). Hamas demands end to war, not just ceasefire, after Gaza truce deal. [online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/hamas-demands-end-war-not-just-ceasefire-after-gaza-truce-deal-2021-05-18/ [4] The New York Times, (2021). Israel, Hamas Agree to Cease-Fire in Gaza, but Tensions Remain. [online] Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/20/world/middleeast/israel-gaza-ceasefire.html
The proposed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, as reported by al-Arabiya, involves the release of ten Israeli hostages and the handover of 18 bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, but issues regarding the conditions for extending the ceasefire and the framework for permanent ceasefire negotiations remain. The politics surrounding the war-and-conflicts in the region, including this ceasefire, are a significant part of the general news.
