The negotiations on the second phase of the truce in the Gaza Strip have stalled due to the “guarantees” required by Israel and the “right to resistance” requested by the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, according to an Egyptian security source. This development has raised concerns about the feasibility of reaching a permanent ceasefire between the two parties.
The source, familiar with the conversations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, noted that it’s uncertain whether all delegations will arrive in Cairo to continue the negotiations for the start of the second phase of the truce. The first phase, which began on January 19 after more than 15 months of war, was set to conclude on Sunday, with the second phase aiming to bring about the release of hostages in Gaza and a definitive end to the war.
One of the main sticking points is Israel’s insistence on “guarantees” that Hamas will deliver all hostages, which the Benjamin Netanyahu government claims is essential for moving forward. Israel also seeks assurances that Hamas will put an end to its armed presence in the strip. However, Hamas rejects this demand, citing its “right to resistance” and arguing that it has already committed to not playing a role in the management of the strip, as previously promised to the mediators.
The Egyptian source emphasized that, in discussions about extending the first phase, the US supported Israel’s demands to deliver more hostages without a complete withdrawal of its forces. Nevertheless, Egypt and Qatar rejected this proposal, insisting that it only meets the demands of the Jewish state. This move highlights the complexities of the negotiations, with different parties having varying interests and priorities.
Another source close to the negotiations revealed that the American side presented a plan proposed by the special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. The plan involves extending the ceasefire during the period of Ramadan and Jewish Easter, with the release of some hostages and deceased individuals on the first day, and the rest to be released at the end of the period if a permanent ceasefire agreement is reached. While this proposal received support from Israel and the Donald Trump administration, Hamas rejected it, citing concerns about the conditions and the lack of a clear commitment to a permanent ceasefire.
The rejection of the Witkoff plan underscores the significant challenges that lie ahead in the negotiations. A Hamas leader told reporters that “Israel’s failure to implement the second phase prevents the extension of the first,” and that negotiations on this new stage “have not yet begun.” The leader also emphasized the need for mediators to press Israel to respect the agreement and to increase the number of Palestinian prisoners released in exchange for each Israeli hostage.
As the situation remains uncertain, it’s clear that the path to a lasting peace in the Gaza Strip will be long and arduous. The Gaza Strip’s humanitarian crisis, combined with the geopolitical complexities of the region, demands a comprehensive and sustained effort from all parties involved to find a solution that addresses the concerns and needs of all stakeholders. Ultimately, the success of these negotiations will depend on the ability of the parties to find common ground and make concessions, while also ensuring the safety and dignity of all individuals affected by the conflict.
