ALBAWABA - An American official speaking on Saturday underscored that the potential ceasefire in Gaza hinges on Hamas' willingness to release a specific group of hostages. This statement comes after Israel showed substantial acceptance of the proposed agreement's general framework.
Preferring to remain anonymous, the official emphasized that the onus is now on Hamas to decide, stating that the groundwork has been laid, and Israel has practically endorsed it. The official suggested that a six-week ceasefire in Gaza could commence promptly if Hamas agrees to release the specified hostages.
The prerequisites for a ceasefire with Israel have been clearly stated by the Palestinian resistance, who emphasize that the truce must be permanent rather than a short extendable period. This demand is a clear indication of their opposition to any short-term cease-fire, which they see as a setup for additional attacks against the Gazan people.
Their demands include the total end of hostilities, the restoration of Gaza after almost 80% of its buildings were destroyed, the evacuation of Israeli forces from the region, and international guarantees against invasion and the deaths of civilians. Furthermore, acknowledgment of Palestine is a basic demand of the Palestinian resistance and a goal shared by all Palestinian factions participating in the movement.
Earlier discussions revealed that ceasefire negotiations are set to resume in Cairo on Sunday, with an agreement reached on the duration of the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of prisoners and detainees.
However, finalizing the deal remains contingent on reaching consensus on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from northern Gaza and the return of its residents.
In parallel, Egyptian and Qatari mediators, collaborating with the United States to facilitate a resolution between Hamas and Israel, reiterated the urgency of expediting the ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Qatari Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani emphasized during their meeting in Doha the imperative of a swift ceasefire and prisoner swap.
