U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff has arrived in Qatar to negotiate a ceasefire extension between Israel and Hamas. Israel seeks a two-month extension contingent on hostage releases, but Hamas has rejected this proposal. Analysts indicate low chances for an updated plan’s acceptance, amid increased pressure actions from Israel.
United States Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has recently arrived in Qatar to engage in negotiations aimed at extending the current fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The desired outcome from Israel is a two-month extension of the ceasefire, contingent upon the release of approximately half of the current hostages held by Hamas.
During his visit, Mr. Witkoff is slated to meet with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani. He has previously commended Qatar for its exceptional mediation efforts, recognizing the supportive roles of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates in the negotiation process.
Despite Israel’s proposition for an extension, it has been reported that Hamas has rejected the proposal, advocating instead for adherence to the framework agreed upon earlier in January. Initially, a three-phase ceasefire agreement was established to negotiate hostage release, but the subsequent stages have yet to yield further resolutions, maintaining a precarious cessation of hostilities.
Analysts suggest that there is a low probability of Hamas consenting to the updated “Witkoff plan,” which includes a provision for releasing ten hostages upon the first day of an additional sixty-day ceasefire period. Recently, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen instructed the Israeli Electric Company to terminate electricity supply to the Gaza Strip, intensifying pressure on the region where 59 hostages remain in captivity.
In summary, discussions led by U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff in Qatar are critical to negotiating an extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. While Israel anticipates a two-month extension linked to hostage releases, Hamas remains resistant, complicating the ongoing negotiations. The regional context, including Israeli actions aimed at exerting pressure on Gaza, further underscores the complexities involved in reaching a sustainable resolution.
Original Source: unn.ua
