New Gaza Ceasefire Proposal Unveiled
A recent report from the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth has revealed a new ceasefire proposal for the Gaza Strip, formulated by Egypt. This proposal aims to establish a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, during which the Israeli military would partially withdraw from Gaza. The plan is designed to facilitate negotiations to end the ongoing conflict, with a focus on Hamas's demand for a complete Israeli withdrawal. The agreement is expected to be finalized before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump.
Key Elements of the Proposal
According to the report, the ceasefire agreement includes a phased approach to prisoner exchanges. Israeli prisoners would be returned approximately one week after the ceasefire begins, while hundreds of Palestinian prisoners would be released in exchange. The Rafah crossing is set to be managed by the Palestinian Authority, with a joint committee formed to oversee operations, potentially including American representatives. The Egyptian source emphasized that the initial 60 days would serve as a critical test for both parties, with hopes that a successful implementation could lead to a more permanent resolution of the conflict.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the cautious optimism surrounding the proposal, significant obstacles remain. Former Israeli negotiator Avi Kalo highlighted the political will of both Israel and Hamas as crucial to the agreement's success. While Hamas continues to demand a complete Israeli withdrawal and the rebuilding of Gaza, Israel faces internal pressures to return prisoners and address its own political challenges. The dynamics of the negotiations are further complicated by the positions of hardline Israeli ministers who may oppose concessions. As discussions continue, both sides must navigate these complexities to achieve a lasting ceasefire.
