Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Egypt are stagnant, with neither side making necessary compromises. Hamas rejected a U.S. proposal and insists on moving to the second phase of a brokered deal, while Israel seeks more stringent conditions. The standoff continues to affect humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a Gaza ceasefire, concluded on March 1, are currently at a stalemate in Egypt. Both parties are unwilling to compromise, according to sources from The National. Hamas has rejected a U.S. proposal from Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, insisting instead on advancing to the second phase of a previously brokered agreement by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.
The first phase of the arrangement included a 42-day truce and the release of 33 hostages from Hamas, with approximately 2,000 Palestinians released from Israeli prisons in return. The impending second phase involves the release of 59 remaining hostages held by Hamas, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian detainees serving lengthy sentences in Israel. Furthermore, this phase anticipates discussions on a permanent ceasefire and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The U.S. proposal, which has been dismissed by Hamas, suggested a 50-day truce and the extradition of 5 to 11 living hostages, coupled with the remains of half the deceased captives. In accordance with this proposal, Israel would need to release a significantly greater number of Palestinians than what was agreed upon in January’s arrangement. Witkoff described the offer as “compelling” but noted that Hamas’s response was “unacceptable” and warned that the opportunity for an agreement was diminishing.
A Hamas official indicated that the group engaged in fruitful talks with Egyptian mediators, maintaining a focus on advancing the ceasefire agreement amidst their acceptance of the updated U.S. proposal. Although Hamas negotiators departed Egypt on Sunday, Israeli representatives remained for further discussions with Egyptian officials. Reports suggest that Israel is reluctant to transition to the next phase, seeking conditions that include Hamas leaders relocating from Gaza.
The initial phase of the ceasefire was initiated on January 19, significantly reducing hostilities following over 15 months of conflict triggered by a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel in October 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the abduction of 250 others. While hostilities have subsided since the first phase concluded in early March, neither side has reached an agreement on the subsequent stage, which Hamas is advocating for. Conversely, Israel insists on a full demilitarization plan and the dismantling of Hamas’s control over Gaza as prerequisites for any transition. In an effort to impose pressure, Israel has suspended humanitarian aid and electricity supplies to Gaza during this negotiation period.
The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a Gaza ceasefire have reached a critical impasse, with both sides failing to compromise on essential demands. The proposed agreements highlight the complexity of the situation, emphasizing the need for a strategic resolution to the prolonged conflict. The situation remains tense, as both parties appear unwilling to make necessary concessions, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
