In the midst of the ongoing Israeli genocide in Gaza and the growing humanitarian needs, Egypt has presented a new proposal aiming to establish a comprehensive ceasefire and pave the way for a long-term truce. This proposal is supported by international mediators from the United States, Qatar, and Turkey, seeking to balance Israel's requirements with the humanitarian needs of Gaza's population, drawing inspiration from the recent ceasefire agreement in Lebanon.
The proposal outlines an initial short truce lasting five days, dedicated to gathering information on Israeli prisoners in Gaza, both alive and deceased. This short truce would be followed by a 60-day ceasefire period, during which a comprehensive prisoner exchange agreement would be implemented, and 200 humanitarian aid trucks would enter the Gaza Strip daily.
Furthermore, the proposal included the management of Rafah Crossing. Rafah Crossing is a cornerstone of the proposal. The crossing would be operated under joint supervision by the Palestinian Authority and European entities, with logistical support from Israel, which would retain the right to veto individuals crossing through. The plan requires Hamas to completely withdraw from controlling the crossing and ensure no presence of its personnel in the surrounding areas.
The proposal calls for the deployment of an international security mission comprising Arab, European, and Turkish forces to oversee the Gaza Strip's administration. This mission would work alongside the Palestinian Authority to ensure security and governance while supporting infrastructure rebuilding and the restoration of civil services.
A central component of the proposal is the release of Israeli prisoners held in Gaza within a week of the truce's commencement in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons.
In the meantime, Israel has shown some flexibility toward the proposal. Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel might agree to the temporary truce while reserving the right to continue military operations if necessary. He emphasized the priority of recovering Israeli prisoners and securing border stability, with Israeli forces remaining stationed at specific points within Gaza during the ceasefire period.
While Hamas has exhibited conditional flexibility toward the proposal, emphasizing its demand for a full Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. Nonetheless, Hamas has expressed willingness to negotiate terms related to prisoner exchanges and easing the blockade, potentially serving as a starting point for broader agreements.
The Egyptian proposal has received clear support from the United States, with the current Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration working jointly to advance the initiative. Countries such as Qatar, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia have also shown interest in supporting Egypt's efforts through mediation and providing implementation guarantees.
At the same time, the proposal might face some challenges, including Israel's insistence on stringent security measures and rejection of comprehensive international oversight in Gaza. Also, Hamas demands for a complete Israeli withdrawal and guarantees for freedom of movement and reconstruction.
The Egyptian proposal could mark a turning point if stakeholders manage to strike a balance between security requirements and humanitarian needs. Current international dynamics, including U.S. pressure to achieve a diplomatic breakthrough before a new administration assumes office, provide an opportunity to strengthen understandings.
The Egyptian proposal represents a serious effort to resolve one of the region's most complex crises. Its success depends on concessions from all parties and a firm commitment from international and regional actors to ensure its implementation. If successful, this initiative could open the door to a new era of stability in Gaza, improving the living conditions of its residents.