Stalemate in Hamas-Israel Ceasefire Negotiations in Egypt

Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Egypt are at a stalemate, with both parties refusing to compromise. Hamas rejected a U.S. proposal and insists on advancing to the next phase of an agreement. The first ceasefire phase ended in early March, but discussions for a second phase focusing on hostage exchanges and demilitarization are ongoing amidst humanitarian pressures.

Negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding a ceasefire in Gaza are currently at an impasse in Egypt. Sources indicate that both parties are unwilling to make the necessary compromises to reach an agreement. Hamas has once more declined a proposal from U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, instead insisting on moving forward with a second phase of an agreement previously brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.

The initial phase of the ceasefire, which began January 19, established a 42-day truce and included the release of 33 hostages by Hamas in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinians being released from Israeli detention. The second phase is supposed to address the release of an additional 59 hostages held by Hamas for hundreds of imprisoned Palestinians, alongside discussions for a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The rejected U.S. proposal suggested a 50-day truce alongside the release of five to eleven living hostages and the remains of deceased captives. Israel would then increase the number of prisoners released beyond what was agreed upon in January. Witkoff described his proposal as “compelling,” but indicated that Hamas’s response was not satisfactory, cautioning that “the opportunity is closing fast.”

A Hamas official stated that their negotiators held fruitful discussions focused on advancing the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. However, sources reported that Israeli negotiators demanded Hamas leaders leave Gaza and refused to engage in second-phase talks. The initial ceasefire phase ended in early March, yet both sides have refrained from full-scale conflict while struggling to agree on subsequent steps.

Israel’s position includes extending the first phase alongside demands for Gaza’s total demilitarization and the removal of Hamas. In an effort to pressure Hamas, Israel has halted humanitarian aid and restricted electricity supply to Gaza, worsening conditions for the local population.

Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas remain unresolved, with both sides unwilling to compromise. The discussions, mediated in Egypt, focus on transitioning to a second phase that would release remaining hostages and address long-term peace agreements. While concerns escalate regarding humanitarian conditions in Gaza, Israel continues to insist on disarming Hamas as part of any future agreements.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com