New Title: “Milliyet Reports Armistice Day Dedication”
Diplomatic Efforts Continue for Ceasefire in Gaza Strip
As Israel’s attacks on the Gaza Strip persist, diplomatic efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement are ongoing. In Cairo, Egypt, discussions were held regarding a 45-day ceasefire agreement in exchange for the release of prisoners under US guarantees.
According to Palestinian and Egyptian sources, Hamas proposed releasing more prisoners in exchange for the ceasefire, showing flexibility in their demands. Zeev Elkin, a member of the Israeli Security Cabinet, revealed that Hamas had now offered to release 10 prisoners as opposed to the initial proposal of 5. Hamas requested a guarantee from Israel to commence the second stage negotiations of the ceasefire, hence asking for time to respond. Sources from Israel indicated that significant progress had been made in discussions with US and Israeli officials, hinting that an agreement could be reached within two weeks.
On the other hand, a high-ranking Hamas official, whose name remains undisclosed, stated that Egypt had offered a new ceasefire to Hamas on the condition of releasing arms. However, Hamas expressed reluctance towards the idea of releasing arms, deeming it unacceptable. Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri emphasized that the resistance’s weapons were non-negotiable, asserting that surrender was not an option for the Hamas movement.
French President Emmanuel Macron called for an end to the suffering of civilians in Gaza and urged for the opening of transit routes for humanitarian aid. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu visited the north of the Gaza Strip accompanied by top Israeli officials, affirming their commitment to achieving their goals in the conflict.
In light of the ongoing negotiations, Iran announced that the second round of talks with the United States would take place in Muscat, Oman. Iranian religious leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei cautioned against extreme optimism or pessimism about the negotiations, emphasizing the importance of clear red lines for both parties involved.
As the region awaits further developments, all eyes are on the diplomatic efforts aimed at bringing peace and stability to the Gaza Strip.
