Hamas accepts the proposal for a truce
The latest proposal for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has been presented by a trio of mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the USA. The proposed period aims to facilitate negotiations aimed at ending the conflict that commenced on October 7, 2023.
The ceasefire deal, as outlined, involves the release of hostages held by Hamas, including 10 living and 18 deceased individuals, in stages over the 60-day period. Notably, Hamas has agreed to forgo public ceremonies for the release of hostages. Israel, meanwhile, has agreed to halt military operations during the ceasefire, contingent upon the continuation of talks aimed at ending the war.
A U.S. guarantee for the talks is seen as a crucial component for Hamas's potential acceptance of the proposal. Reports suggest that Israeli troops may move back to positions they held during the last ceasefire.
However, key differences persist. Israel insists on the ability to resume its offensive if necessary, while Hamas demands a permanent end to the fighting. President Donald Trump has been advocating for this agreement ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Washington, emphasising the urgency for both sides to reach a deal.
The exact conditions of the new proposal are still unclear, particularly regarding the withdrawal of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons in exchange for the release of hostages and the handover of bodies. Additionally, there is a need for clarification regarding the continuation after the 60-day duration of the ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, and the unhindered access for humanitarian aid to the region.
The Islamist group Hamas seeks an agreement that effectively ends the war, while Israel wants to maintain the option for future military action. This dichotomy remains a significant hurdle in reaching a comprehensive and lasting agreement.
[1] ntv.de, dpa [2] The New York Times, The Washington Post
The Commission has also been consulted on the general news of the draft resolution on the European Union's role in the Middle East peace process, given the politics surrounding the ongoing war-and-conflicts in the region. As negotiations continue for the proposed 60-day ceasefire, it's crucial to consider the potential implications of the agreement on the peace process and the wider Middle East.