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Sophia Klein
Negotiations for Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Underway in Egypt
Negotiations are ongoing in Egypt regarding the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Key discussions include the return of captives and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. As uncertainty clouds the negotiations, the potential for a lasting resolution remains unclear. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and destruction in Gaza.
Ongoing negotiations in Egypt are focused on the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire in Gaza, following the conclusion of the initial phase this Saturday. Israeli officials, along with mediators from Qatar and the United States, convened in Cairo for these discussions. The aims of the current talks include achieving a comprehensive end to hostilities and addressing the return of remaining captives held in Gaza, alongside the full withdrawal of Israeli troops from the area.
Israel reports that 59 captives are still in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar expressed uncertainty regarding the negotiations, emphasizing the need to ascertain whether common ground exists for an agreement. “We said we are ready to extend the framework [of phase one] in return for the release of more hostages,” Sa’ar commented during a press briefing.
The prospects of a successful agreement are complicated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s declared intention to eradicate Hamas, a goal supported by U.S. President Donald Trump. Political analyst Mohamad Elmasry stated, “Israel has been telling us for months now… that it doesn’t actually intend to end the war.” He expressed skepticism regarding Hezbollah’s departure from Gaza, predicting Israel may seek to resume conflict.
Recent negotiations were prompted by Hamas’ return of the remains of four captives in exchange for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners. However, Israel delayed the release of some prisoners pending verification of the exchanged bodies, violating the original terms of their agreement. Additionally, Israeli officials indicated a postponement of their planned military withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor, further straining the ceasefire’s conditions.
Basem Naim, a Hamas official, remains committed to the ceasefire and mentioned, “We have already done our duties according to the deal, and we are ready to continue implementing the deal.” The ceasefire, initiated on January 19, 2023, delivered a brief respite after 15 months of conflict that commenced following Hamas’s assault on October 7, which resulted in significant loss of life and continued violence in Gaza.
Since that time, the conflict has resulted in over 48,000 Palestinian fatalities, primarily affecting women and children, and has displaced a significant section of Gaza’s population, with widespread destruction of the region.
The ongoing negotiations in Egypt for the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire highlight crucial issues, including the return of captives and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Despite some progress, uncertainty remains regarding the potential for a lasting resolution amid the conflicting objectives of the parties involved. Continuous monitoring and mediation from international stakeholders are imperative for fostering a peaceful outcome in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
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