Egypt Proposes Two-Week Ceasefire Extension with Hostage Release
Egypt has proposed a two-week extension of the ceasefire for the release of six hostages, following the expiration of the initial phase. Hamas rejected a previous U.S. proposal, while discussions are anticipated between Israeli officials and Egypt. Humanitarian access and an Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor are emphasized in the negotiations. Egyptian plans for Gaza reconstruction await approval from Arab leaders at an upcoming summit.
Egypt has put forth a proposal to extend the current ceasefire by two weeks, contingent upon the release of six hostages—three living and three deceased. This initiative follows the expiration of the initial ceasefire phase on Saturday, which ended without any discussions for a subsequent phase. Reportedly, Egypt aims to mediate between Israel and Hamas, as mentioned by Al-Arabi Al-Jadeed.
The new proposal suggests that if accepted, the ceasefire would allow for the initial release of half the hostages on the first day, with the remaining individuals released at the conclusion, provided a permanent ceasefire is agreed upon. However, Hamas rejected an earlier framework proposed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, labeling it as a tactic to divert from meaningful negotiation efforts.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that an Israeli delegation may travel to Cairo soon to discuss the proposal, pending his decision. Additionally, Egypt maintains its stance regarding a comprehensive Israeli withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor in exchange for a U.S.-managed security project along the Gaza border.
At a recent press conference alongside European Commissioner Dubravka Šuica, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Ati stated that all parties must fully implement the ceasefire agreement, which includes three stages. He emphasized the urgency of negotiations for the second stage, revealing that Egypt has completed a reconstruction plan for Gaza, awaiting approval at the upcoming Arab League summit.
Minister Abdel-Atti also addressed Israel’s decision to restrict humanitarian aid entering Gaza, asserting that the agreement guarantees unimpeded access to aid. He condemned the use of humanitarian supplies as a form of collective punishment, stating it constitutes a flagrant violation of international humanitarian law. He expressed hope that the European Union would pressure for the continuation of the ceasefire, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead in ongoing discussions with Hamas.
In conclusion, Egypt’s proposal to extend the ceasefire aims to facilitate the release of hostages and promote negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Following the expiration of the first phase of the ceasefire, the dialogue appears critical to achieving a lasting resolution. The emphasis on humanitarian access and the need for international cooperation remains pivotal as Egypt strives to mediate these complex dynamics.
Original Source: allisrael.com
