Israeli negotiators will be traveling to Qatar for discussions on extending a ceasefire in Gaza amid escalating tensions. Israel has cut electricity to Gaza to compel Hamas to release hostages, while Hamas demands a new truce phase that includes a prisoner exchange and withdrawal of Israeli forces. U.S. envoy Adam Boehler hints that an agreement could be reached within weeks. Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire, with dwindling resources and high civilian casualties.
Israeli negotiators are scheduled to arrive in Doha on Monday for discussions aimed at extending the fragile ceasefire in Gaza. This move follows Israel’s recent decision to cut off the electricity supply as a tactic to exert pressure on Hamas, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. While the initial phase of the truce concluded on March 1, the parties involved have managed to avoid a return to full-scale hostilities despite the absence of an agreement on subsequent phases.
Despite the cessation of large-scale fighting, notable disparities remain between both sides regarding the terms of a potential second phase in the ceasefire. Hamas is advocating for immediate negotiations toward a new phase, while Israel favors extending the current ceasefire. Amid the stalemate, Israel has ceased aid deliveries to Gaza and has implemented a power cut to compel Hamas to release hostages. Energy Minister Eli Cohen indicated, “We will use all the tools at our disposal to bring back the hostages and ensure that Hamas is no longer in Gaza the day after the war.”
This power cut is reminiscent of the initial stages of the conflict when Israel imposed a siege on Gaza, disconnecting the electricity supply until mid-2024. Gazans now depend largely on solar panels and generators for electricity. The humanitarian situation is dire, with many Palestinians residing in tents amid unseasonably low temperatures. Hamas representative Izzat al-Rishq condemned Israel’s decision to cut off essential supplies as a “desperate attempt to pressure our people and their resistance.”
Hamas has outlined several conditions for the second phase of the truce, which include a comprehensive hostage-prisoner exchange, the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, a permanent ceasefire, and the reopening of border crossings to alleviate the blockade. Spokesman Hazem Qassem emphasized the need for mediators to ensure Israel adheres to the agreement and advances the second phase as per the agreed terms.
Former United States President Joe Biden had previously suggested a second phase involving hostage release and withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Hamas leaders engaged with mediators in Cairo over the weekend, hoping to facilitate progress. U.S. envoy Adam Boehler recently reported that a resolution to secure the release of remaining hostages could be reached within weeks, stating there is potential for a deal encompassing all prisoners, not solely Americans.
According to Boehler, a “long-term truce” is “real close.” However, he also confirmed Washington’s support for any Israeli measures, including resuming military operations if necessary. In late February, former President Donald Trump issued a “last warning” to Hamas, threatening more destruction should they fail to release all hostages, while proposing an alternative reconstruction plan that would not involve Palestinian displacement.
The initial phase of the truce initiated on January 19 resulted in a notable decrease in violence, aiding in the delivery of essential food, medical care, and shelter to the beleaguered Gazan population. The previous exchange of prisoners saw 25 living Israeli hostages and eight deceased bodies swapped for approximately 1,800 Palestinians held in Israeli detention. Once aid was suspended on March 2, UN rights experts criticized the tactic as “weaponizing starvation.”
The humanitarian crises in Gaza were underscored by the ongoing struggles faced by civilians, as exemplified by Abu Mahmoud Salman, who lamented the lack of resources, stating, “there is nothing available. The markets are empty… prices are high, and there is no income. The situation in Gaza is difficult.” The conflict has contributed to significant casualties on both sides, resulting in a deeply concerning humanitarian situation.
In conclusion, the upcoming negotiations in Doha represent a critical opportunity for both Israel and Hamas to address the urgent need for a second phase of the ceasefire in Gaza. The contentious nature of the discussions, particularly regarding hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces, indicates that substantial obstacles remain. Furthermore, the humanitarian circumstances in Gaza continue to deteriorate, necessitating immediate attention from international mediators and humanitarian organizations. The resolution of these issues is essential for restoring stability to the region and alleviating the suffering of the civilian population.
Original Source: www.newstopicnews.com
