JERUSALEM/CAIRO. An Egyptian delegation held crucial discussions with Israeli counterparts on Friday, in a bid to reignite negotiations aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza and securing the release of Israeli hostages. The talks, shrouded in secrecy, underscored the urgent need to find a diplomatic solution to the ongoing crisis.
Israeli officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that no groundbreaking proposals were put forth during the meeting. However, there was a willingness on Israel’s part to entertain the idea of a limited ceasefire, with the potential release of 33 hostages by Hamas, a notable departure from the previous figure of 40.
“There are no current hostage talks between Israel and Hamas, nor is there a new Israeli offer in that regard,” the official disclosed. “What there is, is an attempt by Egypt to restart the talks with an Egyptian proposal that would entail the release of 33 hostages – women, elderly and infirm.”
According to Israeli intelligence sources cited in local media, it is believed that among the remaining hostages held by Hamas and other militant groups, 33 are women, elderly, or suffer from health issues.
While no specific duration for a potential truce was agreed upon, indications suggest it would be of short duration, potentially less than six weeks.
The visit of the Egyptian delegation followed a joint appeal by the United States and 17 other nations to Hamas, urging for the unconditional release of all hostages as a means to de-escalate tensions in Gaza. However, Hamas remains steadfast in its stance, dismissing international pressure.
“We are open to any ideas or proposals that take into account the needs and rights of our people,” a Hamas representative stated, though reiterating their demands for a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
In a move reflecting the gravity of the situation, Israel signaled a willingness to grant one final opportunity for negotiations before resorting to military action in Rafah, a city housing a significant number of Palestinian refugees.
The Egyptian delegation’s involvement underscores Cairo’s growing concern over the potential humanitarian fallout from a prolonged conflict, particularly the risk of a surge in Palestinian refugees into Egypt.
“The Egyptians are really picking up the mantle on this. Egypt wants to see progress, not least because it’s worried about a prospective Rafah operation,” an official commented, highlighting Egypt’s proactive role in seeking a resolution.
While Qatar has traditionally played a pivotal role as a mediator, Israeli officials suggested a shift in focus away from the Gulf state due to perceived shortcomings in delivering tangible results.
“Qatar is still involved but in a lesser capacity,” the official noted. “It’s clear to everyone they failed to deliver, even when it came to expelling Hamas or even shutting down their bank accounts.”
Despite Israeli sentiments, Hamas officials maintain that Qatar remains a crucial mediator, alongside Egypt, in the quest for a lasting peace agreement.
As the region braces for potential escalation, the outcome of these high-stakes negotiations remains uncertain, with hopes pinned on diplomatic efforts to avert further bloodshed and secure the release of hostages.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
