Conflict in Gaza - Hopes for a hostage deal in USA fluctuate.
The US government is encouraging a practical approach in order to reach a swift truce between Israel and the militant group Hamas. John Kirby, the National Security Council's communications director, stated on Tuesday, "I wouldn't say we're extremely hopeful... rather, we're quite pragmatic about this situation." A proposed deal exists, and Hamas is urged to accept it, according to Kirby.
Regarding a deadline, Kirby remarked, "Time is crucial, but I can't establish a specific timeline here." The situation's outcome is always uncertain, so we'll keep working towards a solution.
Kirby underscored that Israel has bargained in good faith and that a ceasefire lasting six weeks is on the table. "There's no room for ambiguity—they're committed to reaching an agreement," he said. Kirby avoided discussions about a contingency plan if the captive exchange fails to materialize. It just has to work, he stated.
Kirby said, "We're adamantly against a large-scale operation in Rafah."
In response to inquiries about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's threat of a military operation in Rafah whether or not a hostage exchange with Hamas is reached, Kirby remained silent. The US stance on an Israeli ground offensive in Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip has not altered, he emphasized. "We firmly oppose a significant ground operation in Rafah," Kirby reiterated. Israel is well aware of the U.S.'s position on this matter.
Currently, indirect talks regarding a ceasefire and the release of more hostages in return for Palestinian prisoners are unfolding in Cairo. It was expected that Israel would initially abstain from a military operation in Rafah in case of an agreement.
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Source: www.stern.de
