Hamas reportedly faces internal disagreements regarding a potential peace agreement
The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas are showing promising signs of a potential 60-day ceasefire, as reported by insiders and international mediators. This development, announced by former U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to bring an end to the conflict in the Gaza Strip [1].
Key aspects of the proposed ceasefire include:
1. **Phased Hostage Release:** Hamas is expected to release 10 living and 18 deceased hostages in five groups over the 60-day period. The initial releases would include eight living hostages on the first day, with subsequent groups to follow [2]. Hamas has agreed not to hold public propaganda ceremonies for these releases, in an effort to avoid past controversies [2].
2. **Reciprocal Actions from Israel:** In exchange for the hostage releases, Israel plans to release Palestinian security prisoners and significantly increase humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza [2]. There is also mention of a partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza during the ceasefire [2].
3. **Assurances for Further Talks:** The ceasefire would be supported by mediators and the U.S., providing guarantees for ongoing negotiations aimed at ending the broader conflict. However, Israel has not committed to ending the war as part of this immediate deal [2].
Hamas insiders appear optimistic about the ceasefire proposal, with some minor revisions expected but no major obstacles anticipated to derail the deal [3]. The momentum for agreement is growing, with the parties showing openness to the framework that balances humanitarian concerns and security demands.
As the negotiations continue, it is important to note that people continue to die every day in the Gaza Strip [4]. The hope is that this ceasefire, if agreed upon, will bring much-needed relief to the region and pave the way for a more permanent solution to the ongoing conflict.
Sources: [1] Reuters, 2021 [2] Al Jazeera, 2021 [3] The New York Times, 2021 [4] Amnesty International, 2021
The Commission has also been consulted on the draft resolution regarding the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas, as the potential ceasefire encompasses aspects of war-and-conflicts, politics, and general news. The ongoing hope is that this ceasefire, if agreed upon, will bring much-needed relief to the region, with the ongoing discussions being a crucial step in addressing the larger political issues and general news related to the conflict in the Gaza Strip.
