Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas are stalled in Egypt, with the U.S. proposal rejected by Hamas. The discussions follow a previous phase involving a truce and hostage exchanges, while the next phase seeks further releases and terms for a permanent ceasefire. Israel’s demands include Hamas’s removal and demilitarization, amidst rising humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
Negotiations for a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in Egypt have reached a standstill as both parties refuse to compromise. Despite a proposal from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, which Hamas has rejected, discussions continue on an agreement originally brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. This agreement’s first phase included a 42-day truce and the release of hostages. The ongoing discussions aim to transition to the second phase of the deal, which encompasses the release of additional hostages and a longer-term ceasefire.
The second phase of the deal proposed by U.S. officials necessitates Hamas’s release of five to eleven living hostages alongside deceased captives. In return, Israel would release a greater number of Palestinian detainees than previously stipulated. Witkoff described his “bridge proposal” as compelling but noted that Hamas had responded unacceptably. He emphasized a looming deadline that Hamas should acknowledge, warning that the opportunity for resolution was diminishing.
Hamas officials stated that negotiations with Egyptian mediators were productive, aiming to further the ceasefire agreement implementation. While Hamas has agreed to release certain hostages, Israeli negotiators requested that Hamas leaders leave Gaza, a condition that has been firmly rejected by Hamas. The initial ceasefire phase, effective since January, halted over a year of conflict but left subsequent arrangements unresolved.
In escalating tension, Israel has reduced humanitarian aid entering Gaza and has cut electricity supplies, worsening conditions for the civilian population. They are insisting on the total demilitarization of Gaza and Hamas’s removal before agreeing to the second phase of the peace talks. The complex dynamics of this negotiation reflect the ongoing struggles to achieve lasting peace in the region and emphasize the urgent need for a resolution.
Ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in Egypt have stalled as both sides remain unwilling to compromise. The first phase of the deal included a truce and the exchange of hostages, while discussions for the second phase include critical issues like the remaining hostages and demilitarization of Gaza. The humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens with Israel’s recent restrictions, highlighting the escalating conflict and the urgent need for a durable agreement.
Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com
