Israeli media have reported that American, Arab, and Israeli officials are planning a meeting in Qatar this weekend to resume discussions on a ceasefire in the ongoing war in Gaza. The mediators have proposed a short pause in the fighting, which could pave the way for a more permanent agreement.
According to the reports, Egypt has put forward a proposal for a short-term ceasefire as part of efforts to build momentum towards a larger agreement to end the conflict. The proposal calls for the release of five captives held by Hamas in exchange for a ceasefire lasting up to two weeks, with the possibility of releasing Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, according to the mediators.
Egypt, acting on behalf of Israel, reportedly made an offer to a Hamas delegation in Cairo this week, suggesting safe passage for Hamas leaders in Gaza in exchange for handing over their weapons. However, Hamas officials stated that while they were open to discussing the ceasefire proposal, they firmly rejected the disarmament clause. They warned that the group could continue fighting for months, if not years, according to the mediators.
The negotiators remain skeptical about a breakthrough during the talks scheduled for Sunday in Doha. The region is also bracing for a potential Israeli response to an earlier Iranian ballistic missile strike on Israeli territory, amid concerns that this could spark a wider war. The timing of any Israeli action, however, remains unclear.
Arab mediators believe that Egypt’s short-term ceasefire proposal might open a window for a comprehensive agreement after weeks of stalemate, as reported by Hebrew media.
The Director of the CIA, William Burns, is set to meet with the heads of intelligence from the occupation state and Egypt, according to the Arab mediators involved. It is also expected that Egyptian and Qatari officials will hold meetings with Hamas representatives.
Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that he “welcomes Egypt’s willingness to push for an agreement to release the hostages,” and has instructed the head of the Israeli foreign intelligence agency, Mossad, to travel to Doha.
Hebrew media also noted that American officials remain doubtful about the possibility of reaching a ceasefire agreement before the end of President Biden’s term.
