By: Emily Ao
On Sunday, officials from Israel, Egypt, the United States, and Qatar met in Rome to discuss the desperate need for a ceasefire in Gaza.
At their meeting, officials aimed to establish a truce between Israel and Gaza in which hostages from either side would be returned safely. This plan had been discussed for months unsuccessfully, but was further encouraged on Sunday because of rising tension along the Israel-Lebanon border. Qatar and Egypt play an especially important role in mediating between the two sides, consistently proposing peaceful solutions.
In the recent weeks, progress has been made. However, nothing has been explicitly solidified, as Israel is facing internal conflicts about the extent of its forces staying in Gaza. Previously, Israel had shown flexibility with proposals for a truce, but it has hardened its position once again.
According to the New York Times, “Israel has also refused to guarantee that its troops will leave the Gaza-Egypt border during a cease-fire, fearing that Hamas would smuggle arms across the frontier in the absence of Israeli forces.” To overcome this, they have planned on installing electric sensors to detect tunnel digging and underground construction. Despite this, no final decision has been made yet.
Recently, thousands of Palestinians have been forced to evacuate and relocate under Israeli orders. An area near the city of Khan Younis, which was previously declared as a safe zone, was affected. Hundreds of civilians were forced to stay stranded in deserted areas. 73 year-old Kamel Abu Jamea told us that he and his wife were left with no choice but to stay due to his wife’s inability to walk. They were also quickly running out of basic supplies like food, water, and first aid supplies.
Israeli military activity has halted aid organization efforts. 22 nutrition programs, sanitation areas, and meal distribution points have stopped operating. In addition to that, at least 17 shelters have stopped catering.
Nonetheless, hope is not gone. Further negotiations for a ceasefire are scheduled to take place in the next few days.