US Official Announces Proposed Six-Week Truce in Gaza, Awaits Hamas Agreement
In a significant development, a senior US official has announced that a framework for a proposed six-week truce in Gaza has been agreed upon by Israel. However, the final decision now rests with the Palestinian group Hamas, who must agree to the terms. This announcement comes just hours before mediators are set to reconvene in Cairo to find a formula acceptable to both Israel and Hamas for a lasting ceasefire.
The United States has been working tirelessly to broker a deal that would pause the fighting before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to begin around March 10. The proposed framework includes a six-week ceasefire and the release of captives by Hamas, particularly those who are vulnerable such as the sick, wounded, elderly, and women. Additionally, if an agreement is reached, it would allow much-needed aid to reach hundreds of thousands of desperate Palestinians in northern Gaza who are currently facing the threat of famine.
While Israel has endorsed the framework proposal, it remains uncertain whether Hamas will accept it. Hamas has previously insisted on a full permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, demands that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed as delusional. This stark difference in positions makes it clear that both sides have a long way to go before reaching a consensus.
The US announcement is seen as an attempt to increase pressure on Hamas to agree to the broad terms of the proposed ceasefire deal. However, it is crucial to note that Hamas views a truce as the starting point for a process that would ultimately lead to ending the war altogether. This stance aligns with their belief that a lasting solution can only be achieved through comprehensive negotiations.
Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are expected to receive a response from Hamas during the upcoming talks in Cairo. While Hamas remains firm on its position, there have been assurances that the terms of the ceasefire will be further discussed in the second and third phases of the deal. However, it is uncertain whether an Israeli delegation will attend the truce talks in Cairo. Israeli media reports suggest that Netanyahu has stated he will not send anyone until Hamas provides a list of all captives who are alive, a demand that Hamas has refused to comply with.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of Palestinians losing their lives and many more wounded in Israeli attacks since October 7. The devastating offensive and blockade imposed by Israel have left the coastal enclave in ruins and pushed its population of 2.3 million people to the brink of famine. The recent incident where Israeli forces opened fire on hungry Palestinians attempting to reach an aid convoy resulted in global outrage and prompted the US to airdrop food aid into Gaza. Jordanian forces also participated in this operation.
As the talks continue, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a breakthrough that will bring an end to the suffering endured by the people of Gaza. The proposed truce offers a glimmer of hope, but it remains to be seen whether Hamas will agree to the terms and pave the way for a lasting ceasefire. Only time will tell if this latest effort to broker peace in Gaza will be successful.