Kenya backs mediated ceasefire proposal in Israel-Hamas conflict

 Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi. [Standard,File]

Kenya has endorsed a mediated proposal aimed at achieving an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

 In a press statement on Monday, June 3, Prime Cabinet Secretary, Musalia Mudavadi, who also oversees Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, conveyed the country's support for the proposal, jointly announced by Egypt, the State of Qatar, and the United States.

"The proposals contained in this statement represent a critical way out of this complicated and intransigent conflict," said Mudavadi noting that they align with the principles outlined by US President Joe Biden on May 31.

He said Kenya views the initiative as part of ongoing mediation efforts towards achieving a ceasefire.

The proposal includes a roadmap comprising several phases.

In the first phase, a six-week ceasefire is proposed, along with the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas of Gaza, the release of hostages and remains of Israeli nationals in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, the return of Palestinians to North Gaza, the entry of aid trucks, and the restoration of essential services.

 In the second phase, there's a permanent cessation of hostilities, the return of all hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, with negotiations continuing to finalize arrangements.

The third phase focuses on the return of any remaining Israeli nationals' remains in Gaza and the commencement of an internationally-backed multi-year reconstruction programme.

“Kenya reaffirms its position that the most realistic solution to this conflict is for both sides to acknowledge each other and embrace a two-state solution,” he added.

 "Implementation of the proposal will facilitate the reunion of Israeli families with their kin held by Hamas.”