Israel and Hamas Accept Six-Week Ceasefire Proposal in Gaza: CNN Report
In a significant development, Israel and Hamas have reportedly accepted a six-week ceasefire proposal in Gaza. According to a senior Biden administration official, the Israelis have “basically accepted” the proposal, which aims to establish a temporary halt to the ongoing conflict. The ceasefire would allow for the release of hostages in Gaza, particularly those who are deemed the most vulnerable, including women, the elderly, and the wounded. Additionally, it would facilitate the flow of much-needed aid into the beleaguered coastal enclave.
While Israel has shown willingness to accept the framework deal, the main obstacle lies in Hamas’ reluctance to agree to a “defined category of vulnerable hostages.” This sticking point needs to be resolved for the ceasefire to be fully implemented. Despite this challenge, US officials remain optimistic that talks between Israel and Hamas are progressing positively.
The urgency for a ceasefire has been underscored by the recent tragic events in Gaza City. Over 100 Palestinians lost their lives on Thursday as they attempted to access food in the city. President Joe Biden, in response to these distressing developments, called for an “immediate ceasefire.” During a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Biden expressed his commitment to working out a deal between Israel and Hamas that would ensure the safe return of hostages and a six-week ceasefire in Gaza. He also emphasized the need to provide aid to the Gaza Strip.
Efforts to broker a ceasefire are ongoing, with further talks planned in Cairo. Negotiators from the US, Israel, Egypt, and Hamas are expected to attend these discussions. Qatar’s participation remains uncertain. The negotiations between Israel and Hamas will be conducted indirectly, with both parties in separate rooms. Israel has requested a list of hostages from Hamas, including information on those who are alive and those who have tragically lost their lives. However, Hamas has yet to respond to the previous meetings held in Paris and Doha.
In a show of solidarity, Vice President Kamala Harris is scheduled to meet with Israeli war cabinet member Benny Gantz on Monday. The focus of their meeting will be on securing a hostage deal that would pave the way for a temporary ceasefire. Harris will also emphasize the urgent need to expand and sustain aid flows into Gaza, given the dire humanitarian situation. The US has already taken steps to increase aid by conducting airdrops and establishing a maritime corridor.
President Biden had expressed hope for a ceasefire by Monday, but he acknowledged that there are still obstacles to overcome. The US is actively working with its partners to scale up aid to Gaza. In a joint effort, the US and Jordan conducted an airdrop of humanitarian aid into the enclave. This operation is part of an ongoing initiative to increase aid flow through land corridors and routes. While the airdrops did not include water or medical supplies, they were strategically dropped in an area where people in need were seeking shelter.
President Biden has emphasized that the current amount of aid flowing into Gaza is insufficient. He has pledged to do everything possible to increase aid and alleviate the dire situation faced by the people of Gaza.
As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for all parties involved to work towards a lasting solution that ensures the safety and well-being of all those affected by the conflict. The international community must continue its efforts to support peace negotiations and provide vital humanitarian assistance to Gaza. Only through collective action can we hope to bring about a sustainable resolution to this long-standing crisis.
This article was written based on information from CNN’s MJ Lee and Oren Liebermann.
