Amid continued Israeli strikes in Gaza, efforts toward a ceasefire are showing promising signs. On Sunday alone, at least eight Palestinians lost their lives due to airstrikes targeting various neighborhoods, including al-Shati refugee camp and Al-Karama.
The Palestinian Foreign Ministry has condemned Israel's actions, accusing it of prolonging the conflict and calling for urgent international intervention to halt the violence. Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, the death toll has risen to 46,565 Palestinians, according to Gaza-based health authorities.
Despite the ongoing violence, indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel are making strides toward a ceasefire agreement. Tahir al-Nono, a senior Hamas official, stated that a ceasefire is within reach if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addresses the key issues at hand. Another Hamas representative revealed that the final framework for the agreement is nearly complete, outlining a two-phase deal that includes the release of hostages and Palestinian detainees, along with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has been actively engaging with international leaders to advance the negotiations. Recently, he updated U.S. President Joe Biden on the progress, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire and the return of hostages. Delegations led by Mossad and Shin Bet officials have traveled to Doha to work with Qatari mediators and U.S. representatives to secure the release of Israeli hostages.
The proposed ceasefire deal aims not only to end the current hostilities but also to pave the way for Gaza's reconstruction and a comprehensive prisoner exchange. As both sides demonstrate flexibility, there is cautious optimism that peace could be restored in the region.
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Israel continues strikes across Gaza amid renewed ceasefire push
cgtn.com
