As October 7, 2023, Israel has continued its war on the Gaza Strip, wich has left more than 149,000 dead and wounded, most of them children and women.
In this context, a delegation from the Hamas movement will head to Cairo on Saturday to discuss a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, according to what a leader in the movement announced yesterday, Friday.
Agence France-Presse quoted Hamas leader Bassem Naeem as saying: “A Hamas delegation will go to Cairo on Saturday to hold several meetings with Egyptian officials,to discuss ideas related to a ceasefire and the exchange of prisoners in the Gaza Strip.”
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) said, “The gaza Strip was subjected last year to the most severe bombing targeting civilians since World war II.”
UNRWA added in a statement, on the occasion of the “International Day in Support of the palestinian People,” which falls every year on November 29: “The plight of Palestinian refugees remains the longest unresolved refugee crisis in the world.”
She said: “On the occasion of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, we stress the necessity of an immediate ceasefire in the Strip,” and explained that “since October 2023, the Gaza strip has witnessed the most severe bombing targeting civilians since World War II.”
On November 29 of each year, a number of countries around the world witness the organization of solidarity events with the Palestinian people and their rights violated by Israel, to commemorate the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, which was approved by the United Nations in 1977.
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How can individuals effectively advocate for peace and support humanitarian efforts in conflict zones?
interview Between Time.news Editor and Conflict Resolution Expert Dr.Sarah El-Masri
Editor: Welcome, Dr. El-Masri. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip and the implications of the recent events. as the situation escalates, we recently learned that over 149,000 individuals, predominantly women and children, have been affected.Can you provide context on the human impact this has had?
Dr. El-Masri: Thank you for having me. The numbers are indeed staggering and represent a humanitarian crisis that is hard to comprehend. The scale of civilian casualties is unprecedented, with families fractured and children bearing the brunt of this violent escalation. The focus on civilians, notably as October 2023, has brought global attention to what the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) aptly described as the most severe bombing since World War II. This raises urgent questions about human rights and the protection of civilians in conflict zones.
Editor: Given this dire situation, we understand that a delegation from Hamas is set to meet with Egyptian officials to discuss a ceasefire and potential prisoner exchanges.What do you believe are the implications of these negotiations?
Dr. El-Masri: These negotiations are crucial. They represent a potential turning point toward reducing hostilities. A ceasefire would ideally provide immediate relief for the people suffering in Gaza, but the discussions must also address the underlying issues that lead to conflict.An effective resolution would require not just temporary peace but a structured framework for a sustainable dialog—something that has been absent in previous engagements. The mention of prisoner exchanges is also significant as it indicates a willingness from both sides to at least engage in discourse.
Editor: The UN has highlighted the plight of Palestinian refugees, marking the enduring unresolved refugee crisis as a priority. How does this ancient context influence the current negotiations and potential resolutions?
dr. El-Masri: The historical context cannot be overlooked. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is deeply rooted in decades of territorial disputes and socio-political grievances. As noted by UNRWA, this situation is perpetuated by the lack of a clear resolution framework. Acknowledge the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, which falls on november 29, reminds us of the global obligation to find humane solutions to the plight of refugees. It’s essential that any negotiations look beyond immediate ceasefire and work toward a long-term resolution that addresses the rights and dignity of Palestinian people.
Editor: What practical advice can you give our readers who are concerned about the situation and want to engage positively?
Dr.El-Masri: Awareness and education are vital. Readers can start by staying informed through credible news sources and supporting humanitarian organizations working on the ground.Getting involved in advocacy for peace initiatives at local and government levels can help influence meaningful dialogue. Lastly, participating in global solidarity events, such as those marked on the International Day of Solidarity, can amplify the voices of those affected and promote awareness of international humanitarian rights.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. El-Masri, for sharing your insights on this complex situation. it’s critical for our readers to understand the deeper implications and to remain engaged in calls for peace and humanitarian support.
Dr. El-Masri: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a peaceful resolution and the safeguarding of human lives in this enduring conflict.