Conflicting messages arise regarding the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, with a Hamas spokesperson claiming U.S. threats jeopardize the situation, while Egyptian sources suggest recent talks in Qatar ended positively. The first phase of the ceasefire has ended, but prospects for extension remain. Humanitarian concerns grow as Israel ceases international aid, urging Hamas to free hostages.
On Thursday, conflicting signals emerged regarding the future of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, a group designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. A Hamas spokesperson indicated that President Donald Trump’s continual threats jeopardize the ceasefire’s stability. Conversely, reports from Egyptian sources suggest that recent direct negotiations between the U.S. and Hamas in Qatar concluded positively, marking a significant development in U.S.-Hamas relations.
These negotiations in Qatar represent a historic moment, as this is the first instance of direct talks between the U.S. and Hamas. The discussions included U.S. Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, leaders from Hamas, and mediators from Egypt and Qatar. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the occurrence of these discussions, stating, “Israel was consulted on this matter,” emphasizing the U.S. commitment to engaging with global counterparts for the benefit of the American people.
Egyptian sources revealed that the discussions ended on a hopeful note, with expectations for an agreement concerning the subsequent phase of the ceasefire. The initial six-week phase concluded last Sunday, but the potential for extension remains as negotiations for a second phase continue. A Hamas representative reaffirmed his organization’s commitment to the ceasefire while indicating that mediators are pressuring Israel to progress.
In response to Trump’s remarks during a meeting with freed hostages, a Hamas spokesperson expressed dissatisfaction. Hazem Qassem insisted that Israeli hostages could only be freed through negotiations. He further urged Trump to persuade Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to begin discussions regarding an additional phase of the ceasefire, which necessitates a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
David Mencer, a spokesman for the Israeli government, welcomed Trump’s threats against Hamas, hoping they would expedite the release of hostages, with 25 still believed alive among the remaining 59. Mencer stated, “They are running out of road. Indeed, they have run out of road.” Recently, Israel also halted all international aid to Gaza to intensify pressure on Hamas regarding the ceasefire’s extension.
The United Nations World Food Program has reported that Gaza has only a two-week food supply remaining, with the cessation of fuel severely impacting the population. Nizar Ayyash, the mayor of Deir al Balah in central Gaza, lamented the challenging conditions in his city, urging officials to address the urgent need for fuel to ensure sanitation, water supply, and waste management. Ayyash raised alarms about the critical situation as Israel threatens to resume military operations in Gaza unless hostages are released swiftly.
In summary, the future of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain amid contrasting signals from involved parties. Recent U.S.-Hamas talks in Qatar have generated optimism for a second phase of negotiations, yet President Trump’s threats complicate the atmosphere. With humanitarian conditions in Gaza deteriorating, the urgency for diplomatic resolutions intensifies as Israel pressures Hamas for the release of hostages, setting the stage for potential escalations in conflict if agreements are not reached.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
