In a bid to de-escalate the intense conflict in Gaza, Egypt has proposed an initial two-day ceasefire aimed at exchanging four Israeli hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners. Announced by Egyptian leader Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Sunday, the temporary truce seeks to pave the way for more comprehensive peace talks.
President el-Sisi revealed that discussions for a permanent ceasefire are expected to resume within ten days following the implementation of the temporary agreement. This development comes amidst ongoing Israeli military operations that have resulted in the tragic loss of approximately 43,000 Palestinian lives in the densely populated enclave.
While neither Israel nor Hamas has officially responded to Egypt's proposal, a Palestinian official close to the mediation efforts expressed cautious optimism. The official stated, \"I expect Hamas would listen to the new offers, but it remains determined that any agreement must end the war and get Israeli forces out of Gaza.\"
Israel has maintained that the conflict will not conclude until Hamas is completely dismantled as both a military force and governing entity in Gaza. The recent Israeli strikes, particularly in northern Gaza regions like Jabalia, Beit Hanoun, and Beit Lahiya, have intensified efforts to eliminate Hamas fighters, resulting in significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction.
The United Nations has condemned the ongoing violence, highlighting the unbearable conditions faced by Palestinian civilians in northern Gaza and criticizing the disregard for international humanitarian laws in the conflict.
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New Gaza ceasefire deal proposed amid heightening regional tensions
cgtn.com
