Egypt is playing a pivotal role as a mediator in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but recent developments regarding a ceasefire in Gaza are raising red flags.
According to a report by the Associated Press (AP), Egyptian officials are skeptical about Hamas’s willingness to accept a ceasefire proposal agreed upon by Israel. Concerns have been voiced regarding whether this deal will lead to Israel withdrawing its troops from Gaza, a crucial point for Hamas.
An Egyptian source involved in the negotiations revealed to the AP that the initial phase of the proposal hinges on Hamas releasing certain civilian hostages taken during the conflict that erupted on October 7, 2023. The subsequent phases of negotiation would continue without solid “guarantees” from either Israel or the mediators, leaving Hamas in a precarious position.
As the official put it, “The Americans are offering promises, not guarantees…Hamas won’t accept this, because it means releasing hostages for a temporary fighting pause with no assurance of a permanent ceasefire.” This statement was made under the condition of anonymity.
OMAR AL-QATTAA/AFP via Getty Images/Getty Images
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced earlier this week that Israel has backed a U.S.-endorsed ceasefire and hostage release initiative. He emphasized, “In a constructive meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, he confirmed that Israel supports the bridging proposal. The next crucial step is for Hamas to agree.”
Blinken also indicated that negotiators are aiming for “clear understandings” to implement the deal, noting there are still “complex issues” that need decisive action from leaders on both sides.
However, the Egyptian official pointed out that the ceasefire proposal does not clearly state that Israel will fully withdraw its military presence from Gaza; instead, they plan to merely reduce troops in specific areas. “This situation is unacceptable for us, and certainly for Hamas,” the official stated.
The conflict in Gaza reignited following a Hamas attack in October, claiming around 1,250 lives in Israel. Meanwhile, the Gaza Health Ministry reports that Palestinian casualties have exceeded 40,000 since the war’s onset.
Palestinians hope to establish a state in the West Bank, territory captured by Israel in 1967, a goal that garners international support.