Recent discussions involving U.S., Hamas, and Egyptian mediators indicate a move towards a second phase of the hostage deal in Gaza. Hamas criticized Trump’s threats toward Palestinians, reinforcing tensions. The ceasefire began in January but has been strained by blockades and demands for hostages’ release, putting Gaza’s population at risk of starvation.
Recent discussions involving U.S. President Donald Trump’s Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, Hamas leaders, and mediators from Egypt and Qatar suggest progress towards a second phase of the hostage deal concerning Gaza. These discussions occurred on Wednesday night, according to two Egyptian sources who spoke to Reuters, indicating a positive outcome and a potential transition in negotiations relating to the ceasefire agreement.
In the context of these negotiations, Hamas has criticized Trump’s threats against Palestinians, viewing them as support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s potential withdrawal from the Gaza ceasefire. They assert such pressure complicates the situation for achieving a lasting resolution, especially regarding the hostages still held by Hamas. Trump has explicitly demanded that Hamas “release all of the hostages now, not later,” implying severe consequences if they do not comply.
Hamas spokesperson Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua emphasized the necessity of moving forward in the negotiations, stating, “The best track to release the remaining Israeli prisoners is by the occupation going into the second phase and compelling it to adhere to the agreement signed under the sponsorship of mediators.”
The initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire, which began in January, involved the negotiation of hostages’ release, and the second phase is expected to outline final plans to end the conflict. However, since the first phase’s conclusion, Israel has enforced a comprehensive blockade on Gaza, stoking fears of widespread starvation among its population of 2.3 million.
Following a meeting with released hostages at the White House, Trump reiterated his support for Israel’s military endeavors, proclaiming that no Hamas member would be spared if compliance is not achieved. He warned Gaza’s civilians that their future hangs in the balance and urged, “Make a SMART decision. RELEASE THE HOSTAGES NOW, OR THERE WILL BE HELL TO PAY LATER!”
In summary, the discussions surrounding the hostage deal between Israel and Hamas have progressed towards a second phase, with significant involvement from U.S. and Egyptian officials. However, the situation remains tense as Trump intensifies his demands for the release of hostages and as Israel maintains a stringent blockade on Gaza. The impacts of the ongoing conflict and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continue to gather urgency, highlighting the need for a sustainable resolution to the situation.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
