Resistance turns down one-sided Israeli temporary ceasefire proposal

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: AP
23 Jan 2024 20:33
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Leaders of the Palestinian resistance refused to leave Gaza and are insisting on "Israel's" complete withdrawal from the territory, a permanent ceasefire, along with the allowance for Palestinians to return to their homes.

Israeli soldiers move on armored personnel carriers (APC) near the Israeli-Gaza border as smoke rises to the sky in the Gaza Strip, seen from southern Palestine, Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024 (AP)

Hamas Resistance movement on Tuesday rejected "Israel's" one-sided proposal for a two-month ceasefire, noting that the unconditional release of remaining captives requires that a permanent ceasefire comes into force.

This comes after reports that "Israel" offered to implement a two-month ceasefire on the condition that the Palestinian resistance releases all remaining captives in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

As part of the proposal, Yahya al-Sinwar and other high-ranking leaders in Gaza would have the opportunity to relocate to other countries.

Israeli news reports further reported on the diplomatic efforts, outlining the same general framework of a potential agreement.

The source who spoke on condition of anonymity told the Associated Press that leaders of the Palestinian resistance refused to leave Gaza and are insisting on "Israel's" complete withdrawal from the territory, along with the allowance for Palestinians to return to their homes.

They further said that Egypt and Qatar, known for brokering past agreements between "Israel" and the resistance, are formulating a multi-stage proposal to address the existing gaps. This proposal aims to conclude the war on Gaza, release the remaining captives, and present a permanent resolution to solve the Israeli-Arab conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office opted not to provide a statement regarding possible talks, citing concerns about potential risks to the captives. Requests for comments on the proposal from Qatari officials remain unanswered.

White House senior adviser Brett McGurk is currently in the region, engaging in discussions with Egyptian and Qatari officials regarding a possible prisoner exchange deal. The White House, along with Netanyahu's office, has refrained from making any official comments.

On Monday, National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby stated that a temporary ceasefire is crucial for securing the release of remaining captives.

"You can’t enact safe passage for hostages out of a danger zone if people are shooting at each other," Kirby said. "We don’t support a general cease-fire, which is usually put in place in the expectation that you’re going to end a conflict."