GAZA CITY: Amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes in southern Gaza, Hamas is reportedly reviewing a proposed six-week truce in its conflict with Israel. The Palestinian territory witnessed at least 125 casualties overnight due to Israeli strikes, according to the health ministry in Gaza.
As mediation efforts led by Qatar and Egypt gain momentum, a Hamas official stated that the group’s leader, Ismail Haniyeh, is expected to visit Cairo to discuss the truce proposal.
The three-stage plan involves an initial six-week cessation of hostilities, facilitating increased aid deliveries to Gaza. During this stage, specific categories of detainees would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israel. Negotiations around the withdrawal of Israeli forces and potential additional phases, including more hostage-prisoner exchanges and addressing Gaza’s reconstruction, are also part of the proposed deal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out withdrawing forces from Gaza and releasing “thousands” of Palestinian prisoners. The talks, deemed “constructive” by Netanyahu’s office, coincide with a meeting between Israeli minister Ron Dermer and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Washington.
UNRWA Humanitarian Assistance in Gaza
As the UN attempts to restore aid funding, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the critical role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) in providing humanitarian assistance in Gaza. The agency faces funding challenges after Israel accused some UNRWA staff members of involvement in the October 7 attack.
Since October 7, Israeli bombardment has killed at least 26,900 Palestinians, mostly women and children, in Gaza.
As negotiations unfold, concerns exist about the potentially catastrophic impact on Gaza’s population if funding to UNRWA remains suspended. The agency provides vital services, including food supplies, medical assistance, and shelters, crucial for addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.
