Israel on Friday made its first comment on the joint tripartite statement of Egypt, Qatar and the United States regarding ceasefire negotiations in Gaza Strip.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “We appreciate the efforts of the mediators and there is no change in the basic principles we presented,” the Saudi Al-Arabiya satellite channel reported on Friday.
Israel expressed its hope that the pressure of the mediators will lead to Hamas accepting the proposed ceasefire agreement.
Qatar, Egypt and the US on Friday issued a joint statement regarding their 48-hour talks to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
“Over the last 48 hours in Doha, senior officials from our governments have engaged in intensive talks as mediators aiming to conclude the agreement for a ceasefire and release of hostages and detainees. These talks were serious and constructive and were conducted in a positive atmosphere,” the statement said.
“Earlier today in Doha, the United States with support from Egypt and Qatar, presented to both parties a bridging proposal that is consistent with the principles laid out by President Biden on May 31, 2024 and Security Council Resolution No. 2735. This proposal builds on areas of agreement over the past week, and bridges remaining gaps in the manner that allows for a swift implementation of the deal,” the statement added.
“Teams will continue technical work over the coming days on the details of implementation, including arrangements to implement the agreement’s extensive humanitarian provisions, as well as specifics relating to hostages and detainees.”
The three countries said that: “Senior officials from our governments will reconvene in Cairo before the end of next week with the aim to conclude the deal under the terms put forward today. As the leaders of the three countries stated last week, ‘There is no further time to waste nor excuses from any party for further delay. It is time to release the hostages and detainees, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement.’ ”
“The path is now set for that outcome, saving lives, bringing relief to the people of Gaza, and de-escalating regional tensions,” the statement concluded.
