Israel has approved a six-week extension of the ceasefire in Gaza, coinciding with Ramadan and Pesach. The plan involves the release of captives held by Hamas, contingent on reaching a permanent ceasefire. Israeli protests demand a second phase to ensure the safe return of captives. The situation remains tense as negotiations progress.
On March 2, 2025, Israel’s government announced a temporary six-week extension of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas in Gaza, coinciding with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Jewish holiday of Pesach. This decision was made by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, shortly after the initial phase of the ceasefire ended following 15 months of conflict that severely affected the region.
The ceasefire proposal, facilitated by U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, includes the release of half of the captives held by Hamas. The release of the remaining captives will depend on the establishment of a permanent ceasefire agreement. Netanyahu’s office indicated that discussions regarding the ceasefire extension would be initiated only if Hamas alters its current position.
While Hamas has not officially responded to this extension, its spokesman, Hazem Qassem, criticized Israel’s approach, asserting that the ceasefire extension was an attempt to avoid fully committing to end the conflict while keeping the possibility of resuming hostilities open. Hamas seeks an immediate shift towards implementing the second phase of the agreement, which aims to secure a lasting ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Tel Aviv demanding the implementation of the second phase and the return of family members captured by Hamas. Furthermore, Netanyahu’s office stated that humanitarian aid to Gaza would cease immediately following the expiration of the first phase of the ceasefire. In earlier agreements, Hamas had freed 30 captives while Israel released approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with over 48,300 Palestinians deceased and an estimated 111,800 injured. This violence erupted following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel, during which 251 individuals, including both Israelis and foreign nationals, were captured. 147 captives, including eight deceased bodies, have been returned to Israel in various exchanges, and about 27 of the estimated remaining 59 captives are believed to be alive.
The temporary extension of the ceasefire in Gaza reflects both ongoing conflict and the complexities involved in negotiations between Israel and Hamas. While Israel pushes for a broader agreement, Hamas continues to advocate for immediate actions that address their demands. The situation remains fluid as both sides navigate the prospect of a lasting peace amidst continued hostilities and public demands for resolution.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
