Egypt proposed a two-week ceasefire extension, seeking the release of three living and three deceased hostages from Hamas. This initiative follows the expiration of a previous ceasefire and aims to coincide with Ramadan and Passover. The Israeli Air Force also targeted militants in northern Gaza during this period, complicating ongoing negotiations.
Egypt has proposed that Hamas release three live hostages along with three deceased individuals in exchange for a two-week extension of the ceasefire. This proposal was communicated by officials as the initial 42-day ceasefire agreement expired on March 1. Israel has indicated its willingness to accept a ceasefire extension based on U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s proposal.
The proposed framework for extending the ceasefire would coincide with Ramadan and Passover festivities. On the first day of the extension, half of the living hostages and remains of the deceased would be released. A permanent ceasefire agreement would trigger the release of all remaining hostages at the end of this period; however, Hamas has currently rejected this proposal.
Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdel Ati, emphasized the importance of initiating swift negotiations for the next phase of the hostage and ceasefire agreement. Furthermore, he noted Egypt’s plans for Gaza’s reconstruction are awaiting approval at the upcoming Arab emergency summit. He condemned using humanitarian aid as a means of collective punishment.
On the same day, the Israeli Air Force conducted strikes targeting individuals believed to be planting explosives near IDF troops in northern Gaza. Palestinian reports indicate that four individuals were killed during the strikes in Beit Hanun, with no distinction made between the suspects and potential bystanders.
In summary, Egypt’s proposal to Hamas aims to facilitate a two-week ceasefire extension in exchange for releasing hostages. The framework is linked to significant religious observances, with a structured release plan depending on the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. Despite ongoing discussions, Hamas has so far rejected the proposal while humanitarian concerns remain paramount amidst military actions in the region.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
