“If Israel accepts Hamas' demands, which include the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza and an increase in humanitarian aid, it could pave the way for an agreement (on a ceasefire) within the next 24 to 48 hours,” he said. The senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said talks are scheduled to take place in Cairo on Sunday.
Talks between Israel and Hamas resumed in Cairo on Sunday aimed at brokering a ceasefire during Ramadan in Gaza, where deadly Israeli bombings of Palestinian territory continue, according to the UN.
Egyptian pro-government media reported that delegations from Qatar and the United States had arrived in the Egyptian capital. There, a source close to the Islamist movement indicated that Hamas envoys would “give them an answer to the proposal made in Paris” by the end of January.
The proposal by mediators Qatar, the United States and Egypt called for a six-week ceasefire and the release of 42 hostages in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.
As the Muslim fasting month begins on March 10 or 11 this year, the aim is to reach a peace before then.
“The Israelis have accepted elements of the agreement in principle,” a senior US official in Washington assured on Saturday, but Israel did not confirm this information.
Media reported on Sunday that a ceasefire could be signed “within 24-48 hours” if Israel accepts Hamas's demands, including the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza and increased humanitarian aid. AFP Senior Hamas official, condition of anonymity.
The Palestinian movement is also demanding Israel withdraw in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza.
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