In Deir al-Balah, Gaza, Hamas has tentatively agreed to a U.S.-supported proposal for a phased cease-fire deal, averting its previous demand for an immediate end to the conflict. A Hamas official and an Egyptian official disclosed the development on Saturday. This potential concession by the militant group could bring about the first halt in hostilities since November and open up possibilities for further negotiations to end the extensive nine-month-long warfare. It is emphasized that the agreement is still not certain.
The suggested phased deal put forward by the United States involves commencing with a six-week comprehensive cease-fire where vulnerable individuals such as elderly, sick, and female captives would be released in exchange for the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian detainees. During this period, Israeli forces would withdraw from densely populated parts of Gaza, facilitating the return of displaced people to their homes in the northern region. Subsequently, Hamas, Israel, and mediators would engage in discussions to outline the subsequent phases of the agreement, which might include the release of remaining male captives, civilians, and soldiers, along with further exchange of prisoners.
The final phase would encompass the return of all remaining captives, including deceased individuals, and the initiation of a lengthy reconstruction endeavor. Hamas is insistent on written assurances from mediators that Israel will persist in negotiating a permanent cease-fire deal after the initial phase takes effect. The group stated that its approval was granted following verbal commitments and guarantees from mediators regarding the cessation of hostilities and continued negotiations until a lasting peace agreement is achieved.
Past cease-fire negotiations have faltered over Hamas’ insistence on a complete end to the conflict, a stipulation that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not accepted. Netanyahu has expressed willingness to pause the fighting but will only cease hostilities when Hamas’ military infrastructure is dismantled, and all hostages held by the group are released. Concerns have been raised by both sides regarding potential resumptions of hostilities post-hostage release.
The ongoing conflict, which ensued after Hamas’ attack in October resulting in numerous casualties and abductions, has led to extensive fatalities in Gaza. The region’s Health Ministry reports a death toll of over 38,000, encompassing combatants and civilians. Humanitarian aid provisions are vital, with the proposed deal aiming to facilitate the entry of around 600 trucks daily, including fuel trucks, to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The dire situation has left many on the brink of famine, as aid supplies have been severely limited.
Subsequently, Israel continued its bombardment in Gaza, resulting in casualties. The Hamas-run Interior Ministry reported the deaths of four police officers and injuries to eight others in an Israeli airstrike in Rafah. Moreover, prayers were held in Deir al-Balah for 12 Palestinians, including children and women, who lost their lives in recent strikes.
Despite these developments, uncertainties persist as negotiations continue in an effort to secure a lasting cease-fire agreement.
