Egypt Proposes Hostage Exchange for Ceasefire Extension Amid Tensions

Egypt has proposed that Hamas release three live and three deceased hostages to extend the ceasefire for two weeks. This comes after the expiration of a previous ceasefire, with Israel prepared to accept the proposal. The deal aims to coincide with Ramadan and Passover, though Hamas has yet to agree to the terms. Concurrently, Israel has halted humanitarian aid to Gaza until hostages are released, and conducted airstrikes against suspected militants in northern Gaza.

Egyptian mediators have proposed a potential deal in which Hamas would release three living hostages and the remains of three deceased hostages in exchange for a two-week extension of the currently expired ceasefire. Officials have stated that this proposal coincides with Israel’s readiness to endorse a ceasefire extension, initially suggested by U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff. The extension is intended to cover the upcoming religious observances of Ramadan and Passover.

The proposed framework stipulates that on the first day, half of the living hostages, along with some of the deceased, would be released. If a permanent ceasefire agreement materializes by the end of the two-week period, the remaining hostages would also be freed. Despite this offer, Hamas has thus far declined to accept it.

Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdel Ati, emphasized the urgency of commencing negotiations for the second phase of the hostage and ceasefire arrangement. He underscored that Egypt has plans for the reconstruction of Gaza, which will be formally presented at the upcoming Arab emergency summit. Furthermore, he asserted that humanitarian aid should not be weaponized as a means of collective punishment.

On a related note, Israel has suspended humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, citing that a ceasefire could not proceed without the release of the hostages. Additionally, on the same day, the Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes in northern Gaza targeting individuals suspected of placing explosives near Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operations. Reports from Palestinian media indicated that four individuals were killed in the airstrike that took place in Beit Hanun, without specific clarification on the identities of the deceased individuals.

In summary, Egypt’s proposed plan for a ceasefire extension involves the exchange of hostages, with ongoing resistance from Hamas. The urgency of negotiations for further arrangements has been highlighted by Egyptian officials, while Israel continues to emphasize the need for hostages’ release before committing to humanitarian measures. The situation remains sensitive as both sides navigate the complexities of the longstanding conflict.

Original Source: www.jpost.com