Daijiworld Media Network - Cairo
Cairo, Apr 30: Israel has insisted that the complete disarmament of Hamas be a key condition before agreeing to Egypt’s proposed six-month truce in Gaza, according to well-placed Egyptian sources familiar with the talks.
The demand was conveyed by an Israeli security delegation led by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer during high-level meetings with Egyptian officials in Cairo on Monday, sources told Xinhua.
Egypt’s truce initiative reportedly includes a six-month cessation of hostilities, the release of 50% of Israeli hostages currently held in Gaza, the reopening of the Rafah border crossing, and the resumption of humanitarian aid flow into the war-torn territory.
The Egyptian side is expected to meet with Hamas officials next week to communicate Israel’s response and further push forward the stalled negotiations.
Meanwhile, Israel Hayom, an Israeli newspaper, quoting a diplomatic source, stated that foreign media reports hinting at a ‘significant breakthrough’ in the ceasefire talks are ‘inaccurate.’ The source emphasized that while efforts are ongoing in coordination with the US and mediators, no agreement has yet been finalized.
Ahead of his Egypt visit, Dermer reaffirmed Israel’s firm stance on dismantling Hamas' military capabilities and governance structure in Gaza, vowing to eliminate any future threats to Israeli security.
Just days earlier, a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya had offered to release all Israeli hostages in exchange for a five-year truce, according to Egyptian security officials. However, Israel reportedly rejected the proposal, as per Israel’s state broadcaster Kan.
Hostilities had momentarily paused after a six-week truce beginning January 19, during which humanitarian aid was permitted into Gaza. But aid entry was halted again by Israel on March 2, citing Hamas’ refusal to extend the ceasefire. The Israeli military resumed its operations across Gaza on March 18, officially ending the truce phase.
Despite weeks of indirect negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, a sustainable peace remains elusive as the conflict in Gaza ignited in October 2023 continues with devastating consequences.