Negotiations over the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas reignite, with Trump advocating for a resolution
The ongoing negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas are being facilitated by the United States, with both parties seeking a permanent end to the conflict that has been ongoing for 22 months. Despite optimism from leaders, particularly US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the talks have yet to yield a definitive agreement.
The US-brokered proposal, which includes the release of Israeli hostages and the return of remains, as well as significant humanitarian aid, serves as the foundation for these negotiations. Here are the key points of the proposed ceasefire:
1. **Duration and Terms**: The proposed ceasefire is for 60 days. Hamas would release 10 living Israeli hostages and the remains of 18 more in five groups during this period.
2. **Israeli Withdrawal**: Israel would withdraw its forces to a buffer zone along Gaza’s borders with Israel and Egypt during the ceasefire.
3. **Humanitarian Aid**: Significant humanitarian aid would be provided to Palestinians in Gaza. The aid would be distributed by United Nations agencies and the Palestinian Red Crescent.
4. **Prisoner Release**: Israel would release some Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages. The exact number of prisoners is still under negotiation.
5. **Permanent Ceasefire Negotiations**: The proposal includes negotiations for a permanent ceasefire during the 60-day truce. However, it does not guarantee a permanent end to the war, which is a major demand from Hamas.
6. **US Guarantees**: The US has assured mediators that it does not intend to allow Israel to resume fighting during the ceasefire period, even if this is not explicitly stated in the agreement. Trump has personally guaranteed Israel's adherence to halting military operations during this time.
However, challenges remain, particularly over long-term security arrangements and the assurance of a permanent ceasefire. Israel's retaliatory campaign has resulted in the deaths of at least 57,523 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out a full Palestinian state, insisting that Israel would "always" keep security control over the Gaza Strip.
The discussions are centered around the mechanisms for implementation, particularly the clauses related to withdrawal and humanitarian aid. The latest round of negotiations began on Sunday, with no breakthrough achieved so far. Of the 251 hostages taken by Palestinian militants during the October 2023 Hamas attack, 49 are still being held in Gaza. The war has created dire humanitarian conditions for Gaza's more than two million people.
The US-led negotiations, centering around a ceasefire for Gaza, are intertwined with politics and general news due to their international implications. The proposed agreement, which delineates a 60-day truce, Israeli withdrawal, humanitarian aid, prisoner release, and permanent ceasefire negotiations, is being scrutinized for its potential to bring an end to the 22-month conflict. Yet, the discussions are faced with various challenges, particularly the assurance of long-term security arrangements and a permanent ceasefire. These challenges are amplified by the complexities of war-and-conflicts and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, impacting more than two million people.
