Hamas has signaled its acceptance of an Egyptian-Qatari proposed ceasefire, following an Israeli evacuation order in the southern city of Rafah that has heightened tensions and sparked fears of an imminent ground assault. As around 100,000 Palestinians begin to evacuate from areas in Rafah, the international community watches with trepidation, with calls for restraint and adherence to international law coming from all quarters.
The ceasefire proposal comes at a critical juncture, with Israel’s defense minister indicating an “intense action” in Rafah may be forthcoming, even as ceasefire and hostage deal negotiations appear to be at a standstill. Basem Naim of Hamas’ political bureau confirmed that the organization is waiting for an Israeli response to its agreement to a ceasefire, the details of which remain scarce. Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas’ top leader, relayed the group’s position during a phone call with Qatar’s prime minister and Egypt’s intelligence minister.
In Gaza, the announcement by Hamas sparked celebrations in some parts, as residents hope for an end to the escalating conflict. However, the Israeli military’s evacuation order has cast a shadow over the purported truce, with the looming operation escalating global alarm over the fate of the 1.4 million Palestinians taking refuge in Rafah. The recent developments have led to a surge of more civilian displacement in a territory where the humanitarian crisis is already at catastrophic levels.
Aid agencies have warned that an Israeli offensive in Rafah will exacerbate the dire humanitarian situation and lead to more civilian deaths. The Israeli campaign has already led to the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians in nearly seven months, devastating the territory and displacing a significant portion of Gaza’s population.
The United States, through President Joe Biden, has reiterated concerns over an invasion of Rafah, emphasizing a ceasefire as the best approach to protect lives, including Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Amidst the tension, Biden spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with the latter ensuring that the Kerem Shalom crossing remains open for humanitarian needs.
The international community, including leaders in the Middle East and Europe, has expressed deep concern over a potential offensive in Rafah. Egyptian authorities are in constant contact with all parties to avert further deterioration, while the European Union’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, has urged Israel to renounce a ground offensive.
As civilians pack their lives into vehicles in Rafah and head towards the Israel-declared humanitarian zone of Muwasi, uncertainty looms large. The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, has committed to providing aid wherever people choose to be, despite the squalid conditions of the makeshift camps.
The prospect of a ceasefire remains tentative, as Israel has not yet commented on the deal and details have not been released.
Relevant articles:
– Hamas accepts cease-fire proposal for Gaza after Israel orders Rafah evacuation ahead of attack, Stripes, 05/07/2024
– Live updates: Hamas says it accepts Qatari and Egyptian cease-fire proposal, though Israeli officials have not yet released a statement, NBC News, 05/06/2024
– Hamas war, eastern Rafah evacuations, CNN, 05/06/2024