Additionally, the deal offers a roadmap for achieving a permanent ceasefire and resolving the crisis, the mediators emphasized. The plan consists of three phases, starting with a six-week ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza. Hamas, which has maintained its demand for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, has expressed a "positive" view of the proposal. In response to Biden's initiative, Israel’s Prime Minister called a permanent ceasefire in Gaza a “nonstarter” until its war aims, including destroying Hamas' military and governing capabilities, are met. Shoukry reiterated Egypt's support for all efforts aimed at ending the war in Gaza and facilitating a prisoner swap deal.

Source: Egypt Today June 01, 2024 20:36 UTC