Hamas is open to initiatives ensuring a ceasefire agreement and prisoner exchanges in Gaza. Recent discussions in Cairo included forming a committee for governance until elections. Concurrently, Israel aims to pressure Hamas while engaging in talks facilitated by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. Hamas insists on adhering to original agreements, denying any acceptance of a temporary truce.
The Islamic Resistance Movement, commonly known as Hamas, recently engaged in discussions in Cairo with Hassan Rashad, the head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service, concerning the implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the staged exchange of prisoners. During this meeting, Hamas announced the establishment of a community support committee composed of independent national figures to manage the Gaza Strip until broader reconciliation and elections are achieved across all national levels.
Hamas expressed appreciation for the outcomes of the recent Arab Summit, especially regarding the commitment to rebuild Gaza and affirm the rights of the Palestinian people. Concurrently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office revealed its decision to send a delegation to Doha aimed at advancing prisoner exchange negotiations. This initiative was reportedly in response to invitations from Egyptian and Qatari mediators, facilitated under the oversight of the United States.
In a development reported by Hebrew news outlet Ynet, Netanyahu’s decision followed a strategic assessment session held by phone. Israeli government officials have voiced concerns regarding the United States’ direct negotiations with Hamas, which are reportedly taking place without Israeli involvement. Moreover, U.S. officials indicated that President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, is scheduled to arrive in Doha to mediate a new agreement between Israel and Hamas.
It remains uncertain whether Mr. Witkoff will directly engage with Hamas leaders or limit his negotiations to Israeli and Qatari and Egyptian mediators. A senior Israeli official stated that the objective is to convene all parties for a prolonged series of negotiations aimed at a comprehensive agreement. However, Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi quickly rebutted reports suggesting a willingness for a temporary ceasefire, insisting on adherence to the originally agreed-upon conditions.
Mardawi emphasized that the assertion regarding a temporary truce was erroneous, stating, “This news is incorrect and has no connection to reality.” He reaffirmed Hamas’s commitment to advancing to the next phase of negotiations as initially planned. In contrast, Israel has developed a strategy involving escalating measures to increase pressure on Hamas, which might lead to renewed conflict in Gaza, as discussed in a Wall Street Journal report.
Israel has commenced these measures through the restriction of humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, justified by Hamas’s rejection of a ceasefire proposal from U.S. envoy Witkoff. This proposal sought an extended ceasefire with prisoner exchanges at the beginning and end of the designated period, albeit without officially terminating hostilities.
In conclusion, Hamas’s recent discussions in Cairo have reaffirmed its commitment to the implementation of a ceasefire and prisoner exchanges in Gaza, alongside the establishment of a governing committee for the territory. While both Hamas and Israel are navigating complex negotiations with U.S.-backed mediation initiatives, Hamas maintains a firm stance against reports of a temporary truce. Concurrently, Israel has initiated measures that may escalate tensions, complicating the ongoing peace efforts.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
