In an effort to ease the conflict in Gaza, Egypt has proposed a temporary two-day ceasefire to facilitate a small-scale exchange of hostages and prisoners, aiming to lay the groundwork for a more permanent ceasefire.
But does the plan have legs? Let’s take a look.
At a glance:
- Egypt’s proposal includes a two-day truce with a swap of four Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
- Talks involving the CIA, Mossad, and other negotiators are ongoing in Qatar.
- Israel continues its offensive in northern Gaza, with recent strikes resulting in dozens of casualties.
On Sunday, October 27, 2024, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced the proposal during a joint press conference with Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune in Cairo. The plan involves an initial two-day ceasefire, during which four Israeli hostages held by Hamas would be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners. Sisi emphasized that negotiations should resume within ten days of the ceasefire to seek a permanent resolution.
The ceasefire talks have restarted in Doha, Qatar, with high-level participation from the CIA and Israel’s Mossad, aiming to negotiate a more enduring agreement. Despite Egypt’s efforts, Israeli authorities have remained firm, stating that any long-term truce must result in the complete dismantling of Hamas as a military force.
Meanwhile, the conflict continues to escalate, particularly in northern Gaza. Israeli military strikes have intensified in areas like Jabalia, Beit Hanoun, and Beit Lahiya, resulting in heavy casualties. The latest reports indicate 45 Palestinians were killed on Sunday alone, with Israeli forces claiming to have neutralized 40 militants in the last 24 hours.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with the United Nations highlighting the “unbearable” conditions for civilians in the north. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed deep concern over the rising death toll, the destruction of infrastructure, and limited access to essential supplies. The Israeli government maintains that it targets only Hamas operatives, accusing the group of using civilians as human shields, while critics argue that humanitarian aid efforts have been severely obstructed.
As part of the ongoing hostilities, recent Israeli airstrikes hit a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City’s Shati camp, killing nine people, including three local journalists, and wounding many others. The Israeli military has stated that it is investigating the incident.
The proposed ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange come amid a complex international effort involving the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, all seeking to mediate a resolution to the over-year-long conflict. However, with both sides holding firm on key issues, the path to peace remains uncertain.
