CAIRO: Two Egyptian security sources have claimed that Hamas and Israel are both open to a renewed truce and captives release, although disagreements remain on how such mechanism would be implemented, Western media reported.
The sources said Qatar and Egypt which had previously brokered a week-long ceasefire and captives release, insisted on expediting humanitarian assistance and the opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing before any talks could begin.
Hopes for truce were raised on Saturday when according to a source Israel’s spy chief had spoken on with Qatar’s prime minister on Friday.
Hamas is insisting on finalizing the list of captives to be released and asking that Israeli forces should withdraw behind pre-determined lines.
Though Israel has agreed on Hamas setting the list, but the sources said it sought a timeline and to see the list before setting the time and duration of the truce.
Hamas says complete ceasefire must for captive’s release
According to sources Hamas says a complete ceasefire is a precondition for the release of captives.
The Gaza health ministry has said that more than 19,000 innocent Palestinians have been killed in the Gaza war so far.
The Israeli raids have almost destroyed entire neighborhoods in northern Gaza. Israeli ground troops have been facing heavy resistance from Hamas fighters in the area.
READ ALSO: Saudi Crown Prince Offers Condolences on Death of Kuwait’s Late Amir
According to the UN some 1.87 million Palestinians, over 80 percent of Gaza’s population, have left their homes.
The war was paused for seven days as a result of a Qatar- US brokered deal during which Hamas released 105 captives, including 80 in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.
