Hamas has engaged in talks to ensure the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza and expressed readiness for a phased prisoner exchange. Discussions with Egyptian intelligence have led to the proposal of a governing committee for the Gaza Strip until broader Palestinian elections. Meanwhile, Israel plans to escalate pressure on Hamas amidst ongoing negotiations facilitated by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.
Hamas has expressed openness towards any initiative ensuring Israel implements a ceasefire. Recently, a delegation from Hamas met with Hassan Rashad, head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service, in Cairo to discuss a ceasefire agreement and a phased prisoner exchange. The meeting emphasized the formation of a community support committee made up of independent figures to manage the Gaza Strip until broader Palestinian reconciliation occurs, culminating in national elections across all levels.
Hamas appreciated the outcomes of the recent Arab Summit, particularly its commitments regarding the rebuilding of Gaza and the rights of the Palestinian people. In line with these dialogues, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced a delegation will be sent to Doha to progress negotiations on prisoner exchanges, responding to invites from both Egypt and Qatar, with U.S. cooperation.
Netanyahu’s decision follows a strategic assessment by his office regarding the growing unease over direct U.S. conversations with Hamas, occurring without Israel’s involvement. According to Axios, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is slated to arrive in Doha to facilitate a new agreement between Israel and Hamas, though it is unsure whether he will meet Hamas leaders or just interact with Israeli negotiators and mediators from Qatar and Egypt.
Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi denied rumors of a willingness to accept a temporary ceasefire in Gaza. He insisted that these reports are false and reinforced Hamas’s commitment to the terms initially agreed upon, emphasizing the need for negotiations to proceed to the next stage as specified in the original accord.
Simultaneously, Israeli reports indicated plans for “escalating measures” to intensify pressure on Hamas, likely leading to renewed conflict in Gaza. These measures have already commenced, marked by new restrictions on humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, justified by Israel due to Hamas’s rejection of a ceasefire proposal from envoy Witkoff, which suggested prisoner exchanges without formally ending the conflict.
In summary, Hamas remains committed to implementing a ceasefire in Gaza while expressing willingness to collaborate on prisoner exchange negotiations. Conversely, Israeli officials are strategizing increased pressure on Hamas amid notable concerns regarding U.S. engagements. The developments highlight the fragile political dynamics in the region and the urgency for both parties to adhere to previously agreed frameworks for ceasefire and reconciliation efforts.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
