Demonstration in Jerusalem: Family members of captives push for a negotiated settlement

The ongoing Gaza conflict has seen increased international involvement in recent days, with countries outside Israel actively participating in diplomatic efforts to bring about a resolution. France, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Jordan, the UK, the US, and nearly 60 Arab and Islamic states are taking part in a summit in Qatar, aiming to find a peaceful solution. France is pushing for the recognition of a Palestinian state at the UN as a means to pressure Israel and achieve a two-state solution.

In a significant development, France, supported by other nations, is expected to propose officially recognizing Palestine at the UN this week. Meanwhile, Germany and Jordan are coordinating humanitarian aid, and Arab and Islamic countries are working towards unifying their stance at the Qatar summit following Israeli attacks in Doha.

As the diplomatic efforts unfold, there are concerns about the safety of hostages in the conflict zone. Guy Gilboa-Dalal, an Israeli hostage, and Alon Ohel, a German hostage, were reportedly taken to Gaza City ahead of its planned takeover. Hamas has expressed support for a ceasefire proposal by the mediators, but the circumstances surrounding the video's creation, and whether Gilboa-Dalal spoke freely or under duress, remain unclear.

The Forum of Families of the Hostages Held in Gaza has criticized Israel for its lack of response to Hamas' response to the mediators, as three weeks have passed without any significant progress. The Israeli military has intensified its air strikes on Gaza, where an estimated nearly one million people reside, and is preparing for a major offensive in the Gaza Strip.

In a bid to alleviate some of the humanitarian crisis, Israel's army declared a coastal area in southern Gaza, Al-Mawasi, a 'humanitarian zone.' However, the area, which houses essential humanitarian infrastructure such as field hospitals, water pipelines, and desalination plants, is already considered hopelessly overcrowded.

The USA, Qatar, and Egypt are expected to present a new proposal for an agreement this week regarding the conflict in Gaza. The proposal includes a 60-day ceasefire during which initially ten live hostages would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The proposal also includes the release of all hostages and an end to the conflict.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is insisting on a comprehensive deal in which all hostages are released at once, while thousands of people gathered outside his residence in Jerusalem, demanding immediate negotiations for a Gaza agreement. Hamas, on the other hand, is open to any ideas and proposals that would lead to a lasting ceasefire, complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip, the import of humanitarian aid, and the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

Recently, Hamas released a video showing Gilboa-Dalal in Gaza City, stating that several other hostages are being held in the area. Israel is reportedly willing to forgo the takeover of the city in the north of the coastal strip in favor of a "real agreement," but no such agreement currently exists.

As the situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the international community, hostage families, and the people of Gaza await a resolution that ensures peace and security for all parties involved.

Demonstration in Jerusalem: Family members of captives push for a negotiated settlement