Hamas has resumed ceasefire negotiations in Doha with mediators, emphasizing a positive and responsible approach to finalize the agreement with Israel. Reports indicate a favorable atmosphere for discussions, although Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is reluctant to negotiate the next phase. Hamas demands adherence to the ceasefire terms amid ongoing humanitarian pressures from Israel. The conflict has resulted in over 48,500 casualties, prompting international legal actions against Israeli leaders.
On Thursday, Hamas announced the resumption of ceasefire negotiations with mediators in Doha, Qatar, aimed at establishing a ceasefire agreement with Israel. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem expressed that the group approaches these discussions “positively and responsibly,” emphasizing the need for a comprehensive ceasefire implementation that includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the rebuilding of Gaza.
Israeli public broadcaster KAN reported a positive atmosphere surrounding the negotiations, citing unnamed Israeli sources. The report also indicated that an Israeli negotiating team has chosen to extend its stay in Doha to facilitate further discussions on the Gaza deal.
US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Doha on Tuesday to engage in the negotiations. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declined to enter discussions for the next phase of the ceasefire, preferring instead to extend the initial phase which concluded in early March.
The Israeli government has ceased electricity supply and blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza, aiming to coerce Hamas into accepting its stipulated conditions. In contrast, Hamas has rejected these terms, demanding that Israel adhere to the ceasefire conditions and commence negotiations for the second phase, which entails a complete withdrawal from Gaza and cessation of hostilities.
Since the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement was implemented in January, it has effectively halted Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in over 48,500 casualties, predominantly among women and children, leaving the region devastated. Furthermore, last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity relating to the conflict in Gaza. Israel is also under scrutiny at the International Court of Justice regarding its military actions in the enclave.
In conclusion, Hamas has resumed ceasefire negotiations in Qatar, indicating a cooperative stance aimed at resolving conflict with Israel. Despite challenges, including conditions imposed by the Israeli government and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, both parties appear to be engaged in discussions with cautious optimism. The potential for a second phase of the ceasefire agreement remains uncertain as international legal ramifications loom over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Original Source: www.yenisafak.com
