Recent discussions between U.S. officials, Hamas leaders, and mediators from Egypt and Qatar have moved closer to initiating phase two of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. U.S. President Trump has placed pressure on Hamas regarding hostage releases, amidst concerns of escalating tensions and a total blockade imposed by Israel, raising humanitarian alarm for Palestinians in Gaza.
Discussions were held on Wednesday night involving U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East Envoy, Steve Witkoff, Hamas leaders, and mediators from Egypt and Qatar, according to two Egyptian sources reported by Reuters. The talks focused on the post-war governance of Gaza, including potential candidates to lead the administration of the Strip.
The discussions concluded on a positive note, suggesting progress towards a second phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. However, Hamas expressed concern over Trump’s remarks, stating that his pressure on Palestinians may encourage Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to abandon the ceasefire and intensify actions against Gaza.
Trump firmly demanded on Wednesday that Hamas release all hostages immediately, asserting that failure to comply would result in dire consequences. In response, Hamas spokesperson Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua emphasized that the best way to ensure the release of Israeli prisoners is for the occupation to engage in the second phase of the ceasefire agreement facilitated by international mediators.
The Gaza ceasefire deal, established in January, was negotiated with involvement from both Trump’s administration and envoys from the outgoing Biden administration. The agreement outlines the release of remaining hostages in a second phase, where final negotiations for ending the conflict would take place.
Following the conclusion of the first phase on Saturday, Israel implemented a total blockade on goods entering Gaza, insisting on the release of remaining hostages before further negotiations can commence. The blockade has raised alarms among Palestinians regarding the potential for severe humanitarian crises affecting the 2.3 million residents of Gaza.
Trump’s warnings came after he met with released hostages from the first phase of the ceasefire deal. He vowed to provide Israel with all necessary support to decisively eliminate any threats from Hamas. He also issued a stark message to the people of Gaza, urging them to release hostages or face dire repercussions in the future.
In summary, discussions involving key stakeholders surrounding the Gaza ceasefire have indicated a move toward the second phase of negotiations, pending the resolution of hostage situations. Concerns over humanitarian conditions due to the blockade and pressures from U.S. leadership shape the current dynamic, highlighting the complex interplay of strategies, governance, and international diplomacy in this ongoing conflict.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
