Israel Agrees to US Ceasefire Proposal in Gaza for Ramadan and Passover
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Synopsis
Israel has agreed to a US-mediated temporary ceasefire in Gaza during Ramadan and Passover, contingent on hostage exchanges, according to a recent statement from the Israeli Prime Minister's Office.
Key Takeaways
- Israel accepts US ceasefire proposal.
- Temporary ceasefire during Ramadan and Passover.
- Hostage exchange plan outlined by Steve Witkoff.
- Hamas has not agreed to the terms yet.
- Israel may resume fighting if negotiations fail.
Jerusalem, March 2 (NationPress) - Israel has accepted a US proposal for a temporary ceasefire in the Gaza Strip during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover holiday, as stated by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office shortly after midnight from Saturday to Sunday.
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan commenced on Friday and will conclude on March 30, while the Jewish Passover will be observed from April 12 to 20.
As per the proposal from US Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, on the initial day of the ceasefire, approximately half of the 59 living and deceased Israeli hostages captured by Hamas in Gaza would be released. At the conclusion of this period, contingent on a permanent ceasefire agreement, the remaining hostages would be freed, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
The announcement indicated that Witkoff suggested prolonging the ceasefire after concluding that reconciling the positions of both parties to conclude the conflict was unfeasible at this point, necessitating additional time for discussions regarding a lasting ceasefire.
It further emphasized that while Israel has consented to Witkoff's framework for the return of its hostages, Hamas has thus far rejected this proposal.
The statement also noted, "While Hamas has consistently breached the agreement, Israel is not in violation." It added, "Should Hamas alter its stance, Israel will promptly engage in talks concerning all aspects of the Witkoff proposal."
Moreover, the statement highlighted that Israel might resume military action if it deems the negotiations unproductive, as the initial 42-day phase of the ceasefire-hostages agreement ended on Saturday.
