The Gaza crisis has seen Hamas and allied groups reject Egypt’s three-stage approach, a plan that aimed to curb hostilities in Gaza while outlining steps toward resolving the broader Palestinian-Israeli conflict. A prominent Israeli publication referenced Diaa Rashwan, the head of Egypt’s state information service, noting the rejection in its coverage.
The report indicated that Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, a group frequently cited in international discussions, were reportedly opposed to the plan. This framing comes as Cairo’s initiative seeks to balance security concerns with humanitarian needs in the region. [Citation: Reuters overview of Egypt’s proposal and responses]
Earlier, Egypt proposed a tri-phase framework intended to end the fighting between Israel and Hamas. The plan envisaged a ceasefire, a hostage release, and the creation of a Palestinian government to oversee governance and reconciliation efforts. [Citation: Egypt’s three-stage proposal summary]
Egypt described its initiative as a structured pathway to halt the conflict in three stages and to secure the release of all remaining hostages. [Citation: Egyptian official briefing]
The first phase called for a two-week cessation of hostilities, with the possibility of extending this window to three or four weeks, in exchange for the release of around 40 hostages — including women, minors, and the elderly, particularly those in critical health conditions. In return, Israel would free approximately 120 Palestinian prisoners. During this period, fighting would pause, Israeli tanks would withdraw, and humanitarian aid would be allowed into Gaza. [Citation: Phase one details]
In the second phase, the plan proposed the formation of a technocratic government in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. This administration would manage reconstruction efforts and create a foundation for Palestinian parliamentary and presidential elections. [Citation: Phase two provisions]
The third phase envisioned a comprehensive ceasefire and the release of the remaining Israeli hostages, including soldiers, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli facilities tied to Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. This stage would also see Israeli forces withdrawing from Gaza City and surrounding areas, enabling displaced residents in the northern parts of Gaza to return home. [Citation: Phase three framework]
One former ambassador to Palestine commented on the broader willingness to proceed with elections despite ongoing differences with Hamas, underscoring the political dimensions of the outreach and its potential to shape future governance in the occupied territories. [Citation: Diplomatic assessment]