Israel has approved a six-week extension of the ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza, following the expiration of an initial agreement. The extension allows for the potential release of captives, though Hamas has expressed rejection of the extension proposal. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, and protests in Israel continue to demand further action regarding captives.
Tel Aviv has announced a temporary extension of the ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza for an additional six weeks, coinciding with the observance of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Pesach. This decision, made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration, follows the expiration of the initial ceasefire, which had ended a prolonged conflict that resulted in significant casualties in Gaza.
The proposed plan, formulated by U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, includes a provision for the release of half of the captives held by Hamas on the first day of the ceasefire. The release of the remaining captives is contingent upon reaching a permanent ceasefire.
As of the time of reporting, Hamas has not officially responded to Israel’s announcement but has previously rejected the ceasefire extension proposal. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem accused Israel of trying to avoid its obligations to cease hostilities while retaining the option to resume the conflict.
Hamas has requested that the second phase of the ceasefire be implemented immediately and aims for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, alongside the release of all remaining captives. In contrast, Israel has postponed discussions regarding a final settlement for Gaza.
Netanyahu’s office indicated that negotiations could begin should Hamas alter its position regarding the ceasefire. Additionally, it was noted that aid to Gaza would abruptly halt now that the first phase of the agreement has concluded.
In protest, thousands of individuals have gathered in Tel Aviv, calling for immediate action on the second phase of the agreement, which seeks to ensure the safe return of family members abducted by Hamas. Hamas has expressed a willingness to release all remaining captives in exchange for a permanent cessation of hostilities.
During the initial ceasefire phase, Hamas released thirty living captives, which included both civilians and soldiers from Israel, as well as non-Israeli nationals. Furthermore, it returned the remains of eight individuals, reported to have been killed in prior Israeli bombings, although dozens of captives still remain in custody.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in over 48,300 Palestinian fatalities and significant injuries, marking it as one of the most devastating conflicts in recent history. The violence escalated following a Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, where 251 individuals were captured. Totals indicate that 147 captives have been secured through exchanges or agreements, with approximately half of the still-held captives believed to be alive.
The temporary extension of the Gaza ceasefire showcases ongoing complexities in Israeli-Hamas relations, emphasizing the humanitarian situation surrounding captives and the urgent need for a permanent solution. Amidst protests and calls for action, the future of the ceasefire and the soonest pathway towards peace remain uncertain, contingent on shifts in negotiations and political dynamics.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
