Israeli Proposal for Gaza Ceasefire Highlights Key Differences
An exclusive report by the British website "Middle East Eye" elaborates on an Israeli proposal for a ceasefire, which lacks guarantees for its permanent implementation and complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. The document outlines a “temporary cessation of military operations” for a 42-day period, to be followed by open talks aimed at reaching a permanent ceasefire. A source reported seeing the proposal ahead of its formal presentation.
Middle East Eye pinpointed three significant differences between the current Israeli counterproposal and the initial plan presented by mediating countries, including the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The original proposal involved a three-phase plan over six weeks each, leading to a permanent ceasefire and the exchange of prisoners. The Israeli response places restrictions, particularly on Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, and omits the previously mentioned “lifting of the siege” on Gaza, instead proposing “opening border crossings.”
Increased Violence Escalates Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The report coincides with recent escalations in violence, including an Israeli airstrike on a United Nations-run school in Gaza, which resulted in the deaths of at least 45 people. The Israeli military justified the attack, claiming it targeted a Hamas compound within the school premises. The Army highlighted that the strike was delayed multiple times to minimize civilian harm.
In another incident, Hezbollah militants launched at least two explosive drones on Hurfeish in northern Israel, which led to injuries. The Israeli military is responding with airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions as tensions rise along the Israel-Lebanon border.
Tragically, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating. The UN World Food Program described a “full-blown famine” in northern Gaza. UNICEF reported severe food poverty among nine out of ten children in Gaza, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and restricted humanitarian aid.
- US President Joe Biden asserted in an ABC News interview that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is listening to his concerns about avoiding a full-scale invasion of Rafah. Biden acknowledged the significance of international support for the ceasefire negotiation.
- Amidst these developments, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is scheduled to address the US Congress on July 24, reinforcing diplomatic ties between Israel and the United States. Key congressional leaders have expressed their support for Netanyahu's address despite existing political disagreements.
- The Israeli Army has initiated investigations into the deaths of detainees held during its offensive in Gaza. An increasing number of detainees have died in Israeli custody since the conflict intensified, highlighting the need for scrutiny and accountability.
