Ceasefire’s Fragile Second Phase
The Gaza ceasefire’s second phase, set to commence after the initial agreement expired on Saturday night, has hit a significant impasse. Israel has halted all humanitarian aid to Gaza, demanding Hamas’s acceptance of a new proposal before resuming supplies. This action has drawn sharp criticism from international mediators and humanitarian organizations, who accuse Israel of violating international law by “using food as a weapon of war.”
New Proposal and Stalled Negotiations
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with backing from the United States, has introduced a new plan, extending the initial ceasefire by 50 days to cover the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Passover. In return, Hamas is expected to release half of the remaining hostages immediately. Hamas, however, has rejected this sudden shift, accusing Israel of attempting to “evade the agreement and avoid entering into negotiations for the second phase.”
International Criticism and Humanitarian Concerns
The blockade of humanitarian aid has sparked widespread condemnation. Egypt and Qatar, key mediators in the ceasefire process, have labeled Israel’s actions as a “flagrant violation” of international humanitarian law. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the “immediate” resumption of assistance, emphasizing the need to prevent a return to hostilities.
Hostage Crisis and Domestic Pressure
The hostage situation remains a critical issue. Families of the Israeli hostages are increasingly anxious, urging the government to secure their release. On Sunday night, hundreds of protesters gathered outside the prime minister’s residence in Jerusalem, demanding action.
The current deadlock threatens to reignite conflict in the region, exacerbating the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza and jeopardizing the lives of the remaining hostages. The international community continues to call for restraint and a return to negotiations to uphold the ceasefire and ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need.
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