In a bid to halt the escalating conflict in Gaza, Egypt has proposed a two-day ceasefire to exchange four Israeli hostages held by Hamas for several Palestinian prisoners. 🇪🇬🤝
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi announced the initiative on Sunday, aiming to create a window for peace amid rising regional tensions. \"We believe that immediate steps are necessary to prevent further bloodshed,\" el-Sisi stated.
The announcement comes as efforts to resolve the more than year-long conflict resumed in Qatar. El-Sisi emphasized that talks should continue within ten days of implementing the temporary ceasefire to work towards a permanent solution. 🕊️
While neither Israel nor Hamas have officially responded, a Palestinian official close to the mediation efforts hinted at cautious optimism. \"I expect Hamas would listen to the new offers,\" he told Reuters. \"But it remains determined that any agreement must end the war and get Israeli forces out of Gaza.\"
Israel has maintained that the war cannot conclude until Hamas is dismantled as a military force and governing entity in Gaza. The conflict has taken a devastating toll on civilians, with Gaza health officials reporting a death toll approaching 43,000. The densely populated enclave lies in ruins. 💔
On Sunday alone, at least 43 people were killed in northern Gaza as Israeli troops targeted areas where they believe Hamas fighters have regrouped. The towns of Jabalia, Beit Hanoun, and Beit Lahiya have faced intense strikes, with around 800 people killed during a three-week offensive, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.
The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the humanitarian situation. \"The plight of Palestinian civilians in northern Gaza is unbearable,\" the UN stated. \"The conflict is being waged with little regard for the requirements of international humanitarian law.\" 🌐
The world watches as hopes rise for a temporary ceasefire that could pave the way for lasting peace. Will this proposal mark a turning point in the conflict? Stay tuned as the story develops. 🙏
Reference(s):
New Gaza ceasefire deal proposed amid heightening regional tensions
cgtn.com
