Egypt has proposed a two-week cease-fire extension between Israel and Hamas to prevent renewed hostilities. The plan includes releasing three living hostages and the bodies of three others. While Israel may delay military action, officials have denied plans for delegation talks in Cairo amidst ongoing tensions and recent violence in Gaza.
Egypt has proposed a compromise aimed at extending the ceased fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, facilitating negotiations and mitigating the risk of resumed hostilities. This proposal suggests reducing the truce’s next phase from six weeks to two, along with stipulations for the release of three living hostages and the recovery of three deceased individuals.
Sources imply that Israel is currently inclined to delay military operations, anticipating further discussions in Cairo. However, an Israeli official has denied any plans for an Israeli delegation to journey to the Egyptian capital, suggesting that discussions have yet to be formalized.
The original cease-fire arrangement enabled the exchange of numerous hostages for Palestinian prisoners while allowing humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. Nonetheless, Israel has halted aid and closed border crossings due to stalled negotiations concerning the truce’s extension.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration responded to Hamas’ rejection of the “Witkoff framework”—a U.S.-backed proposal for a temporary truce—by ceasing humanitarian aid. The proposed framework sought the release of half of the remaining hostages on the first day of the truce.
Hamas similarly dismissed an alternative proposal from Israel, which involved the release of five living hostages and the bodies of ten others in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The group claimed this offer violated previously established agreements.
Tensions remain acute in Gaza, where recent Israeli drone strikes reportedly resulted in four casualties. The Israel Defense Forces have asserted that operations will persist to address threats to Israeli citizens and military personnel.
In summary, the Egyptian proposal seeks a short extension of the cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, featuring specific conditions for hostages. Although tensions are high, Israeli officials deny plans for negotiations in Cairo, and ongoing military operations highlight the fragile situation. The rejection of various proposals indicates complex negotiations ahead, with humanitarian aid currently stalled.
Original Source: www.ynetnews.com
