Large-scale demonstration in Jerusalem - family members of captives appeal for settlement negotiations

The ongoing conflict in Gaza City, home to nearly a million people, has seen a significant escalation with intensified Israeli airstrikes. Amidst this turmoil, political dynamics within Israel are shaping the course of events.

On one side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's right-wing coalition partners are opposed to a ceasefire. Netanyahu, however, is insisting on a comprehensive deal that would see all hostages released simultaneously. This stance is in contrast to the families of Israeli hostages Guy Gilboa-Dalal and Alon Ohel, who fear that the planned military takeover of Gaza City could endanger their loved ones' lives.

Meanwhile, Hamas has expressed openness to "any ideas and proposals" that could lead to a lasting ceasefire, complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, the import of humanitarian aid, and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. Hamas has also released a video showing Guy Gilboa-Dalal, seated in a car, stating he is in Gaza City.

A proposal for a ceasefire, initially involving a 60-day truce during which ten live hostages would be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners, has been tabled. However, the status of whether Hamas would be willing to release all remaining hostages at once remains unclear from their recent statement.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war are being led by the USA, Qatar, and Egypt. These countries are currently negotiating a peace agreement that includes representatives from Israel and Hamas, with mediation efforts led by Qatar and Egypt, while the USA promotes a negotiation solution including terms such as a ceasefire, hostage release, disarmament of Hamas, and Israel’s military withdrawal from Gaza.

Critics accuse Netanyahu of unnecessarily prolonging the war, while the Forum of Families of the Hostages Held in Gaza has criticised the three-week delay in Israel's response to Hamas' response to the mediators. The Forum also alleges that Netanyahu's political survival depends on prolonging the war.

As the negotiations progress, a new proposal for an agreement is expected to be presented this week, which includes the release of all hostages and an end to the war. The Israeli army, meanwhile, is preparing for a major offensive in Gaza. The hope remains that diplomatic efforts will prevail and bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Large-scale demonstration in Jerusalem - family members of captives appeal for settlement negotiations