Three Palestinian factions – Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine – stated on Saturday that an agreement with Israel on a ceasefire in Gaza is closer than ever. This followed a meeting in Cairo the day before. The factions added that Israel must not set new conditions for the deal to proceed.
Progress made in negotiations
Hamas reported that delegates from the three factions met in Cairo on Friday evening. They agreed that a deal is within reach, provided Israel does not impose additional terms. The factions stressed their desire to end the conflict affecting their people.
Earlier this week, indirect talks took place in Doha, Qatar, between Hamas and Israel. Egypt and Qatar facilitated the negotiations. Hamas issued a brief statement confirming that a ceasefire agreement was close. However, this depends on Israel not setting further conditions.
A Hamas official, speaking anonymously to Agence France-Presse, called the negotiations “significant”. The official stated that most points related to the ceasefire and prisoner exchange have been resolved. Only a few minor issues remain, but they are unlikely to disrupt the agreement. The official also suggested that the deal could be finalised before the end of the year, provided Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu does not introduce new conditions.
Terms of the ceasefire agreement
The anticipated agreement would involve a phased ceasefire. It would also include a gradual military withdrawal from Gaza. Other terms include a major prisoner exchange, a permanent halt to hostilities, and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The agreement would also ensure the return of displaced persons and provide guarantees from international mediators for reconstruction.
Hamas also mentioned that the factions discussed creating a “Community Support Committee” to manage Gaza after the conflict. They thanked Egypt for its role in facilitating the process. The factions agreed to meet again soon to finalise the committee’s formation. This committee will oversee Gaza following the war.
Earlier, Hamas and Fatah had reached an agreement in Cairo to establish the committee. It would include 10 to 15 experts. However, some Fatah leaders, like Jibril Rajoub, have opposed the plan.
