Hamas is yet to respond to Israel’s proposal for a six-week truce, which includes the release of around thirty hostages from Gaza. The United States and relatives of the 133 captives held by Hamas are urging for mediation efforts to result in a peace agreement.
Israeli media reports suggest that an Israeli delegation will travel to Cairo to continue negotiations on the release of hostages. Talks between Egypt and Israel have been described as positive and successful, with concessions made to meet many of Hamas’s demands. Pressure is mounting on both parties to reach a truce, with warnings of a humanitarian catastrophe if an offensive is launched against the city of Rafah.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken discussed the truce efforts with his Saudi counterpart in Riyadh and praised the Israeli proposal as “extraordinarily generous.” He expressed hope that Hamas would make the right decision quickly. Egyptian security agencies are also engaged in discussions with Hamas about the ceasefire proposal.
International organizations and media outlets have cautioned against military action in Rafah, citing potential war crimes. Families of hostages held by Hamas are mobilizing to push for an agreement that would secure the release of their loved ones. Israeli authorities are also concerned about potential arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court, but efforts are being made to prevent these from being issued.
While negotiations continue, violence in Gaza persists, with the Israeli Army reportedly killing 34 Palestinians in recent hours. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with challenges in accessing basic services and a looming threat of further military action. The UN has called for an end to the violence and emphasized the urgent need for a ceasefire to prevent further loss of life.
The first phase of the truce would include the release of around thirty hostages from Gaza if both parties agree on it soon.
