KHAN YOUNIS: Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for the second phase of the Gaza truce commenced in Cairo, preventing a collapse of the ceasefire ahead of its scheduled expiration on Saturday. Egypt’s state communications agency confirmed that “intensive discussions” are being facilitated by officials from the United States, Israel, and Qatar.
Mediators Work Towards a Lasting Resolution
The talks aim to build on the first phase of the ceasefire, with a focus on securing the release of all living hostages held in Gaza and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the region. The third phase is expected to involve the return of deceased hostages.
Currently, Israel claims that 59 hostages remain in Gaza, of whom 24 are believed to be alive. The negotiations face significant hurdles due to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s objective to dismantle Hamas’ political and military structures, an aim that conflicts with the ongoing truce. Despite heavy casualties, Hamas has withstood the conflict and refuses to disarm.
Disputes Over Philadelphi Corridor May Complicate Talks
A key point of contention remains Israel’s control of the Philadelphi corridor—a strip of land along Gaza’s border with Egypt used to prevent arms smuggling. An Israeli official stated that the army’s presence in the corridor is vital for security, while Hamas argues that any attempt to maintain Israeli forces there would be a “blatant violation” of the ceasefire agreement. Under the terms of the first phase, Israel was to begin its withdrawal from the corridor on Saturday and complete it within eight days. Egypt, which opposes any Israeli presence along its border with Gaza, has yet to respond to the matter.
Humanitarian Concerns and Prisoner Exchanges
As part of the truce, efforts are being made to facilitate humanitarian aid into Gaza. According to mediators, discussions include ways to expedite the delivery of essential supplies to alleviate the suffering of civilians.
The final scheduled exchange of hostages under the first phase occurred overnight, with Hamas returning the remains of four Israeli captives in exchange for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners. The Hostages and Missing Relatives Forum confirmed that the remains belonged to Ohad Yahalomi, Itzhak Elgarat, Shlomo Mantzur, and Tsachi Idan.
Freed Palestinian Detainees Welcomed Back
On Thursday, Palestinian minors and women detained by Israel were released to emotional reunions in Gaza and the West Bank. Among the released were 44 boys aged 15 to 19, along with two women. Red Cross buses transported the freed detainees to Khan Younis, where families wept and embraced their loved ones. Similar scenes played out in Beitunia in the West Bank, where large crowds greeted the freed prisoners.
However, Hamas accused Israel of delaying the release of detainees last weekend, citing the inhumane treatment of hostages. In response, Israel refused to hold a public ceremony when handing over the remains of the four hostages overnight.
Future of the Truce Hangs in Balance
The completion of the first six-week truce phase does not guarantee a long-term resolution. Thus far, Hamas has released 33 hostages, including eight corpses, in exchange for around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Netanyahu remains committed to freeing all remaining captives while also dismantling Hamas’ control over Gaza.
However, analysts suggest that Israel cannot achieve both objectives without reigniting hostilities. Hamas is unlikely to surrender its remaining hostages without a permanent truce, as they remain a crucial bargaining tool in negotiations.
The Cost of Conflict
The war, which erupted after Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel that killed over 1,200 people and resulted in the capture of approximately 250 hostages, has taken a devastating toll. According to Palestinian health authorities, Israel’s subsequent military offensive has killed approximately 48,000 Palestinians. While official numbers do not distinguish between combatants and civilians, reports indicate that women and children account for more than half of the fatalities.
The prolonged war has led to the displacement of 90% of Gaza’s population, leaving its infrastructure and healthcare system in ruins. With mediators pushing for a more permanent ceasefire and both sides refusing to make key concessions, the region remains on edge as talks in Cairo continue.
