DOHA/CAIRO, June 1 (Xinhua) -- Egypt and Qatar pledged on Sunday to continue intensive efforts to facilitate a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, based on a proposal put forward by U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff.
A joint statement released by the foreign ministries of both countries said that they look forward to swiftly reaching an initial 60-day temporary ceasefire agreement, which would pave the way for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.
According to the statement, Qatar and Egypt, in coordination with the United States, reiterated their commitment to intensifying mediation efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis.
They called on all parties to support the mediators' efforts to achieve a resolution that ensures stability and calm in the region.
"This step would help end the unprecedented humanitarian crisis, open border crossings according to specific standards, and facilitate the entry of humanitarian and relief aid to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people," the statement said.
The statement also emphasized that the ultimate goal is to end the war in Gaza and begin reconstruction.
On Saturday, Hamas said it had submitted a "positive" response to the U.S.-backed plan, which was accepted by Israel, but sought amendments, including a demand for a longer-term ceasefire.
However, Witkoff, on the social media platform X, described Hamas' reply as "totally unacceptable" and urged the group to adopt the framework, which he said could pave the way for proximity talks that could begin as early as next week.
"That is the only way we can close a 60-day ceasefire deal in the coming days," he said, adding that the agreement would facilitate the release of half of the remaining hostages -- including deceased individuals -- and open the door to negotiations on a permanent truce.
The proposal, backed by the United States, includes a 60-day pause in fighting, the release of 28 of the 58 hostages still held in Gaza, the exchange of more than 1,200 Palestinian prisoners, and an increase in humanitarian aid to the enclave. ■
