Israel and Hamas are moving closer to a potential agreement that could lead to the release of some of the approximately 130 captives in the Gaza Strip in return for a temporary ceasefire in the ongoing conflict, which has been ongoing for five months.
US President Joe Biden anticipates that an agreement could be in place by Monday, just before the beginning of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to start around March 10, as per ABC News.
Biden Hints Ceasefire in Gaza Amid Hostage Talks
The potential ceasefire, aimed at ending the ongoing bloodshed, is contingent upon reaching a deal for the release of hostages still held by militants.
Speaking to reporters in New York after recording an appearance on NBC's Late Night With Seth Meyers, President Biden expressed optimism about the progress in negotiations. He shared, "My national security adviser tells me that we're close. We're not done yet. My hope is by next Monday, we'll have a ceasefire."
The proposed deal, drafted by negotiators from the US, Egypt, and Qatar, involves a six-week ceasefire and the release of some hostages by Hamas in exchange for the freedom of Palestinian prisoners. Notably, the temporary pause would allow ongoing negotiations for the release of remaining hostages.
During the Meyers interview, President Biden pointed out the relevance of the upcoming Muslim holy month, mentioning that the Israelis agreed not to engage in activities during Ramadan to allow time to get all the hostages out.
The draft proposal, reported by Reuters, comes amid rising global concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with many displaced Palestinians in makeshift shelters facing dire conditions.
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Netanyahu Eyes Gaza Ground Offensive
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office had earlier revealed plans for a ground offensive into Rafah, a Palestinian town in the southern Gaza Strip. The town, home to 1.4 million people, has been a focal point of the conflict.
The conflict initiated when Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, leading to Israeli operations in Gaza. A proposed month-long pause in fighting aims to address the remaining hostages, with concerns raised about the deteriorating conditions in Hamas' terror tunnel network.
Israel's demands include proof of life for captive survivors and the deportation of high-ranking Hamas terrorists to Qatar instead of Palestinian territories.
Amid the conflict, Israel's military claimed to have destroyed a significant underground tunnel complex used by Hamas. The tunnel stretched six miles and was connected to civilian infrastructure, including a hospital and university.
The drafted ceasefire framework, discussed in Paris, envisions a 40-day break during Ramadan, starting around March 10. It proposes the release of Israeli hostages, the exchange of prisoners, and increased aid supplies to Gaza, with ongoing talks for a long-term arrangement.
While President Biden expressed hope for a ceasefire by next Monday, officials from Israel, Hamas, and Qatar have indicated that significant differences remain, and a final deal is still a distant prospect. The last ceasefire deal in November 2023 collapsed after seven days, with accusations of bad faith from both side, The Guardian reported.
