US envoy discussions with Hamas and mediators hint at progress in a hostage deal and governance of Gaza post-war. However, Trump’s threats may complicate negotiations. Israel’s blockade on Gaza intensifies concerns over humanitarian crises as hostages remain unfreed.
Recent discussions involving US President Donald Trump’s Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, Hamas leaders, and Egyptian and Qatari mediators are reportedly advancing toward a second phase of the Gaza hostage deal. Egyptian sources indicate that these talks focused on Gaza’s governance post-conflict and potential leadership arrangements for the region, concluding positively, suggesting a shift in the ceasefire negotiations.
Amid these negotiations, Hamas criticized Trump’s ongoing threats against Palestinians, implying such rhetoric could undermine the ceasefire and embolden Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to escalate actions in Gaza. Trump insisted on an immediate release of all hostages, stating, “It is OVER for you” if demands were not met.
Hamas spokesperson Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua remarked on the strategy for hostage release, emphasizing that compliance from Israel in the second phase is essential for sticking to the agreements facilitated by mediators involved in the ceasefire.
The ceasefire agreement, effective since January, involves a phased approach for releasing hostages, with the first phase concluded on Saturday. However, Israel has enforced a comprehensive blockade on Gaza, stressing that Hamas must free all remaining captives before any war-ending negotiations can commence. This blockade poses severe risks of starvation for Gazans, with 2.3 million residents affected.
Trump’s aggressive posturing followed a White House meeting with previously released hostages, where he reiterated support for Israel’s military efforts. He threatened severe repercussions for Hamas and urged immediate action, saying, “A beautiful Future awaits… if you hold Hostages… RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!”
The ongoing negotiations between the US, Hamas, and regional mediators signal potential advancements in the hostage deal and ceasefire progress. Despite the bleak outlook created by Trump’s stern warnings and Israel’s blockade, both sides may be inching toward a resolution. The hostage situation remains a critical focal point, influencing the paths of negotiation as humanitarian concerns mount among Gaza’s population.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
