World
January 4, 2025 08:00
middle east - Recent developments in the Middle East indicate a potential peace process between Israel and Hamas, with negotiations aiming for a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Recent reports confirm that a ceasefire process has commenced in Gaza after over a year of ongoing attacks by Israel. Hamas stated that the negotiations, which had previously been initiated but yielded no results, have resumed. The Lebanese Prime Minister, during a phone call with the Syrian leader, discussed urgent matters and relations between the two countries, including recent border conflicts in Eastern Lebanon near the Syrian border.
Additionally, the interim Foreign Minister of Syria stated plans to visit Saudi Arabia followed by official visits to the United Arab Emirates and Jordan. This move is aimed at supporting stability, security, economic recovery, and establishing strategic partnerships.
In another incident, the Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that an Israeli raid on Balata Refugee Camp in Nablus led to the tragic death of Muhammed Amir (18) and injuries to nine Palestinians. Witnesses described Israeli forces entering Eastern Nablus with drones, setting up snipers, and engaging in clashes.
Meanwhile, tribal leaders in Tel Abyad, liberated from the terrorist organization PKK/YPG during the Peace Spring Operation by the Turkish Armed Forces, demanded the liberation of occupied lands from the organization. They highlighted the dire living conditions of residents in Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, and Hasakah worsened by PKK/YPG's actions.
Hamas member Basem Naim emphasized the seriousness of Hamas in reaching an agreement, stressing the need for a permanent ceasefire and Israeli forces' withdrawal from Gaza. Talks are expected to focus on a complete cessation of hostilities, the pullback of occupying forces, and the return of displaced individuals.
Following reports of delegating a team to Qatar for ceasefire and prisoner swap negotiations in Gaza, Hamas confirmed that talks would recommence in Doha. The discussions aim to achieve a deal that will halt all conflicts and lead to the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip.