Hamas asserts that it will grant the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) access to the hostages in Gaza only after the establishment of humanitarian passageways
In a significant development, the Hamas organization has proposed the establishment of permanent humanitarian corridors in the Gaza Strip, aimed at facilitating the regular and unhindered passage of food, medicine, and other essential supplies to all areas of the territory.
The proposal, made by the armed wing of Hamas, the Ezzedin al Qassam Brigades, comes as a response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The enemy prisoners referred to are Israeli hostages held in Gaza, and the Islamic movement has declared its readiness to positively respond and accept any request from the Red Cross to deliver food and medicine to these hostages.
However, it's important to note that the opening of these humanitarian corridors is contingent upon the delivery of food and medicine to all areas of the Gaza Strip, not just specific locations. The exact nature of the conditions set by Hamas for Israel's cooperation has not been publicly detailed.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has emphasized the need for an agreement between the parties to enable humanitarian action in Gaza, including visits to hostages and detainees, and safe delivery of aid to civilians. The ICRC acts as a neutral intermediary and has facilitated hundreds of releases, but stresses that only a lasting agreement between the parties can end the suffering endured by hostages and civilians in Gaza.
It's essential to highlight that the Hamas proposal for humanitarian corridors does not mention any specific role for the ICRC in the implementation of these corridors. The proposal suggests a permanent and regular opening, not a one-time event. However, the precise timeframe for the implementation of these corridors remains unspecified.
This development comes as a potential step towards easing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, but it's clear that a lasting solution will require cooperation and agreement between all parties involved. The ICRC has reiterated its call for an overall agreement between Israel and Hamas to facilitate humanitarian access and improve the situation in Gaza.
- The Hamas proposal for permanent humanitarian corridors in Gaza extends beyond just basic supplies, as it includes a readiness to positively respond to Red Cross requests for delivering food and medicine to enemy prisoners held in the territory.
- General news outlets have reported that the issue of war-and-conflicts in Gaza remains complex, with crime-and-justice elements involved, as Israeli hostages are currently being held in the strip.
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