Egypt floats plan to end Israel-Hamas war. The proposal gets a cool reception

The Egyptian proposal aims to bring an end to the Israel-Hamas war by implementing a phased ceasefire, securing the release of hostages, and forming a Palestinian government of experts to govern the Gaza Strip and West Bank.

The details of the Egyptian proposal were worked out with the involvement of the Gulf nation of Qatar. It was presented to key stakeholders, including Israel, Hamas, the United States, and European governments. Egypt and Qatar are known mediators in the Israel-Hamas conflict, and the U.S. plays a crucial role in the region.

The proposal suggests an initial ceasefire of up to two weeks, during which Palestinian militants would release a specific number of hostages, including women, the sick, and the elderly. In return, Israel would release a corresponding number of Palestinian prisoners from its jails. Negotiations would then continue to extend the ceasefire and release more hostages and bodies held by Palestinian militants.

The Egyptian proposal envisions the establishment of a government of experts to govern Gaza and the West Bank during a transitional period. All Palestinian factions, including Hamas and the internationally recognized Palestinian Authority, would work together toward holding presidential and parliamentary elections.

The proposal seeks a comprehensive “all-for-all” deal, including the release of all remaining hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli military forces from Gaza, and the cessation of rocket attacks into Israel by Palestinian militants. It aims to bring an end to the conflict and provide a path forward for lasting peace in the region.

While the proposal offers a potential path to peace, it faces challenges. Israel seeks to maintain military control over Gaza, which the proposal does not fully address. Hamas’s willingness to relinquish power in Gaza after 16 years remains uncertain. The rising death toll and domestic pressure in Israel add complexity to the negotiations. Furthermore, there has been continued violence during the proposal’s consideration, including rocket attacks from Hamas and Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.