Hamas hails Qatar and Egypt's determination to clear hurdles for Gaza ceasefire agreement
The two mediators stated that their efforts are proceeding 'based on the proposal of the U.S. President's Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff,' which they said provides a framework for the resumption of indirect negotiations.
The statement expressed hope for a 60-day truce that could lead to a permanent ceasefire and an end to the worsening humanitarian crisis in the besieged territory. Both countries stressed their commitment, in coordination with the United States, to intensify efforts aimed at removing the obstacles impeding negotiations.
Qatar and Egypt also called for the opening of border crossings and the urgent entry of humanitarian and relief aid into Gaza, paving the way for the complete cessation of hostilities and the start of reconstruction efforts by the roadmap adopted by the emergency Arab Summit held in Cairo on March 4, 2025.
The two nations urged all parties to act responsibly and to support the efforts of mediators to resolve the crisis and restore stability and calm to the region.
Hamas welcomes mediation, ready for talks
Responding to the Qatari-Egyptian statement, the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) announced on Sunday its readiness to begin a new round of indirect negotiations aimed at reaching a permanent ceasefire and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.
'We are ready to immediately begin a round of indirect negotiations to reach an agreement that secures relief for our people and ends the humanitarian tragedy,' Hamas said in a statement. 'We welcome the continued Qatari and Egyptian efforts to end the occupation's war in the Gaza Strip.'
On Saturday, Hamas submitted its official response to the proposal put forward by U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff. The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu categorically rejected the response, although a Hamas source called it 'positive,' highlighting the necessity of a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal. In turn, Witkoff reportedly deemed the Hamas response 'unacceptable.'
The source, familiar with the negotiations, explained that Hamas emphasized the necessity of a permanent ceasefire, a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of ten prisoners in three stages.
Despite diplomatic efforts, Israel continues to intensify its military campaign in the Gaza Strip. Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz has instructed the army to expand its ground operation into additional areas of the already devastated and besieged enclave.
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