Discussions between U.S. Envoy Steve Witkoff and Hamas leaders suggest movement toward a second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. President Trump’s threats alongside his demands for hostages’ release complicate relations. Heightened tensions and humanitarian crises in Gaza persist post-blockade.
Recent discussions occurred between U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East Envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Hamas leaders with mediation by representatives from Egypt and Qatar, as reported by two Egyptian sources to Reuters. These talks focused on potential governance structures for Gaza post-conflict. Sources indicated that the discussions concluded positively, signifying progress toward a second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
Hamas expressed concerns on Thursday regarding President Trump’s persistent threats towards Palestinians, viewing them as encouragement for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to abandon the ceasefire and tighten the blockade on Gaza. Trump insisted on the immediate release of all hostages, stating, “release all of the hostages now, not later,” while threatening severe repercussions for Hamas if they do not comply.
Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua, a spokesperson for Hamas, emphasized that the most effective strategy for facilitating the release of Israeli prisoners would involve the occupation entering the second phase and ensuring adherence to the previously negotiated agreement with mediators.
The Gaza ceasefire, effective since January, was established with Trump’s envoy’s involvement, alongside members of the previous Biden administration. It stipulates that the remaining hostages would be released in a subsequent phase, which would also encompass final discussions to conclude the conflict. Following the first phase’s conclusion, Israel enacted a comprehensive blockade of Gaza, demanding the release of remaining hostages without initiating further negotiations.
As the blockade intensifies, Palestinian representatives warn that it may lead to widespread starvation among the 2.3 million residents of Gaza. Following a White House meeting with previously released hostages, Trump reinforced his stance, affirming, “I am sending Israel everything it needs to finish the job; not a single Hamas member will be safe if you don’t do as I say.” He also addressed the people of Gaza, conveying a stark message: “a beautiful future awaits, but not if you hold hostages. If you do, you are DEAD! Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!”
In summary, recent discussions among U.S. and Hamas leaders, with Egyptian and Qatari mediation, have led to potential advancements toward a second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. However, tensions remain high, particularly following President Trump’s firm demands for the release of hostages. The situation remains critical, particularly concerning the humanitarian crisis developing in Gaza due to the blockade imposed after the first phase of the ceasefire.
Original Source: www.jpost.com