Tensions remain high as Hamas has officially rejected Israel's recent proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza. The ceasefire, which has been in effect since January 19, is set to expire on Saturday. It comes at a critical moment, as reports indicate that 59 captives remain in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive.
According to the Gaza Government Media Office (GMO), Israel has committed over 350 violations of the ceasefire agreement. These violations reportedly include military incursions, gunfire, air strikes, intensified surveillance, and the obstruction of humanitarian aid. Despite these actions, Hamas has reiterated its commitment to the terms of the ceasefire and is prepared to implement all stages of the agreement.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar expressed that Israel is willing to extend the framework of phase one of the ceasefire in exchange for the release of more hostages. This proposal highlights the underlying complexities of the negotiations, as both sides seek to achieve their objectives without escalating tensions further.
“We said we are ready to extend the framework [of phase one] in return for the release of more hostages. If it is possible, we’ll do that.”
— Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar
Humanitarian organizations have emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire to facilitate aid delivery to Palestinians in Gaza. The World Food Programme noted the clear benefits of sustained humanitarian access, urging all parties involved to ensure the ceasefire remains intact.
In light of these developments, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the coming days as "critical" for negotiations surrounding the second phase of the ceasefire. The aim of these talks is not only to secure a comprehensive end to hostilities but also to facilitate the return of all remaining captives and ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
“The ceasefire and hostage release deal must hold. The coming days are critical. The parties must spare no effort to avoid a breakdown of this deal.”
— United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
Compounding the situation are reported delays in allowing displaced families to return to northern Gaza, along with shortfalls in the agreed levels of aid entering the enclave. Since the inception of the ceasefire, the Israeli army has reportedly killed and injured dozens of Palestinians through air strikes and shootings.
As tensions mount, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem accused Israel of attempting to recover captives while simultaneously leaving open the possibility of resuming military action. Analysts suggest that such a stance complicates potential negotiations.
“That’s been left up in the air as the mediators try to contain this crisis and prevent a return to fighting that will bring nothing but further devastation to the people of Gaza.”
— Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum
Complications surrounding this situation have led some observers to speculate on the viability of extending phase one. Tareq Abu Azzoum highlighted that Hamas's rejection of Israel's terms poses challenges for any potential negotiations moving forward.
“So that’s bad news for any negotiations because Hamas won’t agree to this.”
— Al Jazeera’s Tareq Abu Azzoum
As international mediators continue their efforts to stabilize the situation, both sides appear entrenched in their positions. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether a resolution can be reached that satisfies humanitarian needs while addressing security concerns.
