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GAZA CITY – Efforts to broker a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip are ongoing, with Egypt and Qatar jointly announcing their continued work to “overcome differences” and reach an agreement based on the proposal of American envoy steve Witkev.The two nations urged all parties to support the brokers’ efforts to end the conflict and implement the reconstruction plan adopted at the emergency Arab summit on March 4, 2025.
The joint statement emphasized the commitment of Egypt and Qatar to bridge the gaps and resolve contentious issues to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza, aiming to resume indirect negotiations based on the American envoy’s proposal. They expressed hope for a swift, temporary truce lasting 60 days, leading to a permanent ceasefire, an end to the humanitarian crisis, the opening of crossings, and the delivery of aid.
These diplomatic efforts coincide with the resumption of air traffic at Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport after a ballistic missile fired from Yemen caused a temporary halt. An Israeli army spokesman confirmed the interception of the missile, which triggered warnings in central Israel, Jerusalem, and surrounding areas.
hamas recently responded to the American proposal for a temporary ceasefire, expressing willingness to release 10 living Israeli hostages and hand over the remains of 18 others in exchange for an agreed number of Palestinian detainees. However, the group seeks amendments to the plan prepared by Steve Witkeov.
In its statement, Hamas reiterated its core demands:
A permanent ceasefire.
A comprehensive withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.
* Ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid.
Additionally, Hamas seeks freedom of movement to and from Gaza, the resumption of commercial activity, and the reconstruction of infrastructure, including electricity, water, communications, hospitals, schools, and bakeries.
Hamas also proposed that President Trump oversee any agreement reached, with the United States, Egypt, and Qatar acting as guarantors to maintain the truce for 60 days, during which negotiations for a permanent agreement would continue, along with the sustained entry of aid and the cessation of military operations.
Hamas offered to provide facts on the remaining hostages, both living and deceased, in exchange for full data from Israel on Palestinians detained as October 7, 2023.
