Hamas is prepared to proceed with the final aspects of a Gaza truce deal, emphasizing the need for a permanent ceasefire and reconstruction. Negotiations for further stages are ongoing but faced difficulties, with Hamas formally opposing foreign governance proposals. Various stakeholders, including the U.S. and neighboring countries, advocate for Palestinian autonomy in post-war governance.
Hamas has expressed its commitment to advancing the “remaining stages” of a ceasefire agreement in Gaza as the initial phase concludes amid uncertain next steps. In a letter addressed to the Arab League summit, Hamas highlighted its determination to move towards a permanent ceasefire, which includes the full withdrawal of Israeli occupation forces, the reconstruction of Gaza, and the lifting of the blockade.
Although the first phase of the truce is set to expire, negotiations for the subsequent stage aimed at establishing a lasting ceasefire have reached an impasse. The ceasefire, which started on January 19, followed over 15 months of conflict that began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dispatched a delegation to Cairo for intensive discussions involving Israel and mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. However, as of Saturday, no agreement had been achieved, and Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem publicly opposed extending the initial phase based on Israel’s proposed terms.
Hamas stated its readiness to accept any Palestinian-agreed solutions for post-war Gaza but firmly rejected any imposition of foreign governance or military presence. U.S. proposals, including the resettlement of Palestinians and a takeover of Gaza, have met with strong opposition from Palestinians, Egypt, and Jordan, highlighting regional rejection of outside intervention.
Former U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken suggested that Gaza should be governed by the Palestinian Authority, which has limited control over the West Bank. He mentioned that several countries have expressed willingness to deploy security forces to Gaza in its reconstruction phase.
Hamas has reiterated its readiness to finalize the remaining aspects of a ceasefire agreement with Israel, emphasizing the need for full occupation withdrawal, reconstruction, and the end of the blockade. Despite ongoing negotiations, consensus remains elusive as Hamas rejects external governance and any unilateral proposals regarding Gaza. The position of various stakeholders indicates significant resistance to foreign military intervention and calls for Palestinian-led governance post-conflict.
Original Source: jordantimes.com
