Israeli negotiators are heading to Qatar to discuss extending a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. Israel has cut electricity supplies to increase pressure on Hamas amid ongoing humanitarian crises. Significant differences remain regarding the terms of a potential second phase of the truce, with Hamas calling for immediate negotiations. The outcome of these discussions may affect hostages’ release and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Israeli representatives will travel to Doha, Qatar, on Monday to engage in discussions regarding the extension of a fragile ceasefire in Gaza. This occurs against the backdrop of Israel cutting off the electricity supply to increase pressure on Hamas. The initial phase of the ceasefire concluded on March 1 without an agreement for future stages, yet hostilities have not fully resumed since then.
Negotiations regarding the terms for a potential second phase of the truce face significant disputes. While Hamas has consistently advocated for immediate discussions regarding the subsequent phase, Israel is leaning towards extending the current ceasefire. Amidst a deadlock in negotiations, Israel has suspended aid deliveries to Gaza and has resorted to cutting the power supply to a territory heavily reliant on it.
Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen stated, “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, emphasizing the urgency to resolve hostages’ situations. This power cut mirrors earlier wartime strategies and further complicates already dire living conditions for Gazans, who are increasingly reliant on alternative power sources.
Hamas has articulated demands for the second phase of the truce, which involve a comprehensive hostage exchange, a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, the establishment of a permanent ceasefire, and the lifting of the blockade to reopen border crossings. Spokesman Hazem Qassem indicated a need for mediators to ensure adherence to these terms.
Former U.S. President Joe Biden’s proposals for the second ceasefire phase included the release of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Recent conversations between Hamas representatives and mediators in Cairo have provided hope, with U.S. envoy Adam Boehler suggesting that an agreement could be reached soon, potentially resulting in the release of hostages held in Gaza.
The humanitarian situation remains tenuous, with the cessation of aid from Israel leading to severe shortages in Gaza. Testimonies from local residents reflect extreme hardship, with one stating, “The markets are empty… prices are high, and there is no income. The situation in Gaza is difficult.” The ongoing conflict has led to significant civilian casualties on both sides, highlighting an urgent need for a resolution.
The ongoing negotiations in Qatar aim to extend a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, facing significant disagreements over its second phase. Israel has taken steps to increase pressure on Hamas by cutting off the electricity supply and suspending aid deliveries, resulting in challenging conditions for Gazans. With demands from Hamas for a comprehensive agreement, hopes for a resolution and the safe return of hostages are tied to the upcoming discussions. The humanitarian crisis underscores the urgent necessity for effective dialogue and resolution between the conflicting parties.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
