Egypt Proposes Steps Towards Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza Conflict
Egypt is taking steps to mediate a permanent ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad in the Gaza Strip. The war has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands of people, severe damage to Gaza, and the displacement of the majority of its Palestinian residents. Egypt’s proposals include the relinquishment of power by Hamas and Islamic Jihad, as well as a multi-stage ceasefire plan.
Egyptian security sources have revealed that one proposal suggests Hamas and Islamic Jihad giving up their power in the Gaza Strip in exchange for a permanent ceasefire. However, both groups have rejected this proposal, emphasizing that the future of Gaza should be determined by the Palestinians themselves rather than through foreign influence.
Israel, on the other hand, has demanded the destruction of Hamas and Islamic Jihad. Israeli officials have stated that this would involve dismantling the groups’ military and governance capabilities, as well as deradicalizing the Gaza population. It is unclear if the proposed removal of the militant groups from power would satisfy these demands.
Regarding the ceasefire, Egypt has suggested a multi-stage approach. The first stage would involve a temporary ceasefire lasting for one or two weeks, which could be renewed. Palestinian officials have outlined a three-stage ceasefire plan, with the initial 10-day truce focused on releasing captive women, children, and elderly individuals. Israel would reciprocate by freeing an agreed number of Palestinian prisoners in those categories, ceasing all fighting, relocating tanks away from populated areas, and allowing the delivery of aid.
The second stage would see Hamas releasing Israeli women soldiers, while Israel would release another group of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, both parties would exchange bodies that have been withheld since October 7. The third stage, which may last for a month, aims to negotiate the release of all captives held by Hamas in exchange for an agreed upon number of Palestinian prisoners. Israel would also withdraw tanks from Gaza, and both sides would cease all hostile activities.
Hamas has rejected the temporary ceasefire proposed by Egypt, stating that they will not stop fighting until Israeli aggression ends. The group’s senior official, Osama Hamdan, expressed a willingness to consider ideas that could lead to a comprehensive end of the conflict, rather than temporary truces. Hamas and Islamic Jihad have insisted on a prisoner swap deal that would secure the release of all Palestinians held in Israeli prisons.
In terms of a post-war Gaza administration, Egypt has raised the idea of forming a government of technocrats. This administration would handle relief aid, oversee the reconstruction of Gaza, and hold a legislative election. However, Palestinian officials have stated that this issue is not a condition of the ceasefire proposal.
The final phase of Egypt’s proposal would involve an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, enabling the displaced population to return.
Egypt is working to bring an end to the violence and find a sustainable resolution to the Gaza conflict. The mediation efforts aim to prevent further loss of life and create conditions for long-term peace and stability in the region.
