An agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is reportedly “closer than ever,” according to leaders from Palestinian factions, as officials push to finalize a deal that could end months of conflict.
Leaders from Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine met in Cairo on Friday to discuss the latest developments in the ceasefire negotiations and a potential prisoner-for-hostage exchange deal.
“The ceasefire agreement is closer than ever if Israel stops setting new conditions,” said a senior official from the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement on Saturday. He added that most terms of the proposed agreement have been agreed upon, including a gradual cessation of hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.
While some contentious points remain under negotiation, officials are optimistic that these will not pose significant obstacles. “We hope the agreement can be finalized before the end of the year, provided there are no new conditions introduced,” the official said.
The final deal is expected to include a comprehensive prisoner-for-hostage exchange and a permanent end to the war between Hamas and Israel, which began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on southern Israel that resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths.
Negotiations are ongoing, mediated by Egypt and Qatar with involvement from the United States, and are based on a U.S.-proposed plan introduced in May to resolve the conflict.
Sources close to the mediation efforts stated that Hamas has pushed for a one-package deal, while Israel prefers a phased approach. Talks are focused on an initial release of hostages and Palestinians jailed by Israel.
One significant issue is Israel’s demand to retain the right to act against any possible military threats from Gaza and the stationing of Israeli forces during phases of the deal. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz emphasized that Israel will maintain security control over Gaza with full freedom of action after defeating Hamas.
On Thursday, Human Rights Watch alleged that the denial of clean water to Palestinians in Gaza by Israel constituted a violation of international law. Israel’s foreign ministry refuted these claims, stating that it has facilitated the continuous flow of water and humanitarian aid into Gaza despite ongoing attacks.
As negotiations continue, the hope for a lasting peace in Gaza grows among the Palestinian factions involved. The possibility of forming a community support committee to manage the rebuilding and recovery of post-war Gaza was also discussed, signaling a focus on the future beyond the conflict.
Reference(s):
Gaza ceasefire agreement 'closer than ever' as officials push for deal
cgtn.com
