Hamas says it is studying a framework proposal presented in Paris by Israel, US, Qatar and Egypt for a cease-fire and prisoner exchange in Gaza.
Hamas has yet to officially comment on the proposal, which was presented several days ago after mediated talks in the French capital. U.S. President Joe Biden, on the other hand, says the fighting could end within a week, but so far, nearly 30,000 Palestinians have died and most of the 2.3 million population is starving and destitute.
The proposal suggests a halt in fighting that could last up to six weeks, according to informed sources. This would allow the release of 40 Israeli prisoners held by Hamas in exchange for the release of 400 Palestinians held in Israeli jails.
“This will include women, children, elderly men and those who may have health problems. This will also include the redeployment of the Israeli army to allow more people to move freely within the Gaza Strip. According to the proposals, aerial surveillance by the Israeli military will be suspended for eight hours a day.”
Hospitals and bakeries in Gaza will be repaired and 500 aid trucks will be allowed into Gaza per day under a possible deal, Reuters reported, citing an unnamed source.
The news agency also reported that the framework proposed the gradual return of all displaced Palestinian civilians – except men of military age – to the northern Gaza Strip, and Israeli forces in Gaza. It has been suggested to deploy at different places away from densely populated areas.
Israeli and Hamas delegations are said to be in Doha, the Qatari capital, separately for further talks.
Mediators are said to be hoping for an agreement before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which begins on March 10.
“Ramadan is coming and an agreement has been offered by the Israelis not to engage in hostilities during Ramadan, to release all the hostages,” US President Biden said in televised remarks on Tuesday. We can be given time for that.”
Hamas has yet to comment officially, but sources reportedly told Reuters that Biden’s comments about ending the fighting were “premature” and that “there are still big gaps to be filled and so much needs to be done”.
