later A truce between Israel and Hamas is not expected before Ramadan as Hamas representatives depart from negotiations, but have indicated they will reconvene at a later time.
Hamas announced on Thursday that their representatives have departed from Cairo and negotiations for a cease-fire in Gaza and release of hostages will reconvene next week, which diminishes the likelihood of mediators reaching an agreement before the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. President Biden had expressed optimism and encouraged both sides to come to an agreement to cease hostilities.Israel-Hamas war
Prior to the start of Ramadan, which is anticipated to be on Sunday evening.
Earlier, Egyptian officials stated that the talks had reached a deadlock due to Hamas’ request for a gradual process leading to the end of the war. However, they did not dismiss the possibility of reaching an agreement before Ramadan, which has become a loose deadline.
Jihad Taha, a representative for Hamas, stated that Israel is unwilling to provide assurances or follow through with the cease-fire, the return of those who have been displaced, and the withdrawal from the areas they have invaded. However, Taha mentioned that negotiations are ongoing and will continue next week. There has been no response from Israel at this time.
Dawoud Abo Alkas, a photographer associated with Anadolu, curated the visuals for this piece.
For several weeks now, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have been attempting to negotiate a deal for a six-week peace agreement and the liberation of 40 hostages who are thought to still be captive in Gaza, in exchange for Palestinians who are currently detained in Israeli prisons.
On March 2, CBS News reported that a ceasefire of six weeks was being negotiated wherein Hamas would release vulnerable hostages, including those who are sick, wounded, and elderly or women.
According to an official, a tentative agreement has been reached between parties involved. It appears that the Israelis are in general agreement. Additionally, a six-week ceasefire in Gaza is set to begin today, on the condition that Hamas releases the hostages, as stated by the official.
On the next day, the Vice President of the Biden administration, Kamala Harris, used powerful words to describe the situation in Gaza as a “humanitarian catastrophe.”
It was stated that there should be a prompt halt to hostilities.
“We are currently looking at a minimum of six weeks for our plans.”
Biden urges agreement for ceasefire as Harris meets with high-ranking Israeli military leader.
The officials of Egypt reported that Hamas had reached a consensus on the key conditions of an initial agreement, but also expressed a desire for assurances that it would ultimately result in a lasting cease-fire.
Hamas has announced that they will not free all of the remaining captives without a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the region. It is believed that Palestinian extremists currently have around 100 hostages in their custody, along with the bodies of 30 others who were captured during the terror attack on southern Israel on October 7th, which ultimately led to the outbreak of conflict.
Hamas is requiring the liberation of numerous prisoners, specifically high-ranking militants who are currently serving life sentences, as part of the deal to release the remaining hostages.
Israeli authorities have officially rejected these demands, stating their intention to continue the military campaign after a cease-fire in order to eliminate Hamas.
The Egyptian authorities claim that Israel desires to restrict the discussions to a less comprehensive agreement. They requested to remain anonymous as they are not permitted to divulge information on negotiations to the press. According to the officials, mediators are continuing to urge both sides to be more flexible in their stances.
During Ramadan, the time of fasting from sunrise to sunset, there is typically an increase in tensions between Israelis and Palestinians regarding access to…
Jerusalem’s main spiritual destination
On Sunday evening, the start of the lunar month is expected to commence. However, this may vary depending on when the moon is spotted.
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Source: cbsnews.com