Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has approved sending a negotiating team to participate in ceasefire talks with Hamas, marking a potential breakthrough in the nine-month-long conflict in Gaza. This decision comes in response to Hamas’ latest proposal regarding a US-backed plan for a phased ceasefire, which the US has described as ‘constructive’.The proposed ceasefire plan, initially announced by US President Joe Biden in late May, includes several key components: the gradual release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, the release of Palestinian prisoners, and eventually, the reconstruction of Gaza. Hamas has suggested ‘amendments’ to this proposal, maintaining its position on a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.While the exact details of Hamas’ response remain undisclosed, Israeli officials have expressed cautious optimism. An Israeli source close to the negotiations stated that there is now ‘a basis for a good deal,’ noting that Hamas’ response does not demand a ceasefire in the first phase of the agreement. This flexibility could allow for the exchange of prisoners, including the injured, sick, women, and children.However, significant challenges remain. Netanyahu has reiterated that Israel will not end the war until it achieves its goals of destroying Hamas’ military and governing capabilities and returning all hostages. The transition from the first to the second phase of the ceasefire plan has been a major sticking point, with Hamas concerned that Israel might restart the war after the initial phase.The conflict has taken a devastating toll, with over 38,000 Palestinians killed and widespread destruction in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The international community, including mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the US, continues to push for a resolution to the crisis.As negotiations proceed, some Israeli officials express optimism about reaching an agreement within two to three weeks. However, internal political pressures in Israel may complicate matters, with some suggesting that Netanyahu faces a dilemma between accepting the agreement and maintaining his political survival.The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining whether this latest diplomatic effort can bring an end to the prolonged conflict and alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Key points
- Netanyahu has approved sending a negotiating team for ceasefire talks with Hamas.
- Hamas has responded to a US-backed ceasefire proposal with amendments.
- The proposed plan includes phased release of hostages, withdrawal of Israeli forces, and exchange of prisoners.
- Over 38,000 Palestinians have been killed in the nine-month conflict.
- Negotiations face challenges, but some officials express optimism about reaching an agreement within weeks.
Contradictions👾While some sources indicate Hamas is insisting on a permanent ceasefire, others suggest they’ve shown flexibility in their latest proposal.
👾There are conflicting views on whether Hamas has demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in the first phase.
