Jerusalem: Egypt's foreign minister announced on Sunday evening that the country is actively working on a new agreement for Gaza, which includes a 60-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of some Israeli hostages and the expedited entry of humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave.
According to Anadolu Agency, Badr Abdelatty, Egypt's foreign minister, emphasized during a televised interview with OnTV that the proposal is a collaborative effort involving Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. The initiative is described as 'a first step' towards achieving a sustainable ceasefire. Abdelatty outlined the agreement's terms, highlighting a 60-day truce that would facilitate the release of hostages and ensure the rapid delivery of medical supplies and other aid to Gaza.
Abdelatty expressed optimism that this move could generate momentum toward a lasting ceasefire, eventually leading to the implementation of the Jan. 19 agreement. He stressed that this proposal is only an initial step and underscored the necessity for a subsequent phase that would involve a permanent cessation of hostilities. The foreign minister also mentioned the American vision of incorporating guarantees in any forthcoming agreement to ensure the longevity of the ceasefire.
The foreign minister warned about the significant threat to regional stability posed by any resumption of Israeli aggression. The current proposal builds upon a previous ceasefire deal brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the US on Jan. 19. This earlier agreement aimed to end the Israeli genocidal war in Gaza but fell apart when Israel resumed its attacks in March.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the Israeli military has continued its offensive against Gaza since October 2023, resulting in the deaths of 56,500 Palestinians, predominantly women and children. In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, charging them with war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.