Israel is set to send a delegation to Qatar for talks on extending the Gaza ceasefire. Tensions remain high following Israel’s cut-off of electricity to Gaza and cessation of aid amidst accusations from Hamas regarding violations of the ceasefire. The parties have differing views on the next steps, with urgent calls for hostage exchanges and humanitarian relief from the international community.
Israel has announced that it will dispatch a delegation to Qatar on Monday to engage in new discussions aimed at extending the fragile cease-fire in Gaza. This move follows Israel’s decision to cut off electricity supplies to Gaza, a tactic intended to increase pressure on Hamas after the initial phase of the cease-fire agreement expired in early March without further progress towards a lasting peace.
Disagreements persist between the two parties as Hamas insists on immediate negotiations regarding the next phase of the agreement, while Israel favors continuing the initial phase. In a statement released on Monday, Hamas accused Israel of violating the cease-fire deal, claiming Israel is evading its responsibilities by avoiding discussions on the subsequent phase.
A senior official from Shin Bet, Israel’s domestic security agency, is set to lead the Israeli delegation. Amidst the ongoing stalemate, Israel has ceased aid deliveries to Gaza, and the recent suspension of electrical power has escalated tensions. Energy Minister Eli Cohen emphasized the necessity for stringent measures to ensure the return of hostages and the eventual removal of Hamas from Gaza.
Hamas spokesperson Abdul Latif al-Qanoua condemned the electricity cutoff, warning that it jeopardizes hostages held by Hamas and stating, “The decision to cut electricity is a failed option and poses a threat to its (Israeli) prisoners, who will only be freed through negotiations.” Israel’s actions have drawn criticism from Germany, with a foreign ministry representative asserting that the cutoff is detrimental and incompatible with international law obligations.
The primary power line powering Gaza’s desalination facility has been severed, forcing many Gazans to depend on solar energy and generators. With hundreds of thousands displaced and living in tents, nighttime temperatures in Gaza have plummeted to as low as 12 degrees Celsius (54 degrees Fahrenheit).
Hamas has outlined specific conditions for the second phase of the ceasefire, which include a comprehensive exchange of hostages, total Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, an enduring ceasefire, and the reopening of border crossings to alleviate the blockade. A representative from Hamas noted that they require assurances from mediating nations that Israel will adhere to the terms of the agreement.
Former U.S. President Joe Biden had proposed a second phase that encompasses the release of hostages and a full withdrawal of Israeli troops. U.S. envoy Adam Boehler expressed optimism about reaching a deal within weeks, emphasizing a “long-term truce” might be near. However, he later conveyed that Washington would support any decision made by Israel, even regarding a military resurgence.
Previously, former U.S. President Donald Trump had issued a “last warning” to Hamas regarding the hostages while suggesting controversial reconstruction plans that did not involve the displacement of Palestinians. The initial ceasefire phase, which commenced in January, concluded with exchanges of hostages and helped to rectify dire human conditions in Gaza. Following a reduction in aid from Israel, however, the situation in Gaza has deteriorated markedly, with civilians now facing immense hardships due to lack of resources.
Since the outbreak of hostilities began with the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, over 1,200 people in Israel have lost their lives. Conversely, reports indicate that the Israeli military’s response has resulted in significantly higher casualties in Gaza, with over 48,000 deaths, most of whom are civilians, underscoring the dire consequences of the ongoing conflict.
In conclusion, the upcoming discussions in Qatar aim to address the fragile ceasefire in Gaza amidst ongoing tensions and humanitarian concerns. Israel’s recent decisions to cut electricity and halt aid exacerbate the already critical situation in Gaza, while Hamas insists on immediate negotiations and comprehensive agreements. The prioritization of hostages in these talks highlights the complexities and challenges in achieving lasting peace. As mediators continue their involvement, the international community remains watchful of the developing circumstances.
Original Source: www.al-monitor.com
