As the deadline to begin talks on extending Gaza’s ceasefire arrived, the Israeli prime minister found himself in Washington, leaving uncertainty about when negotiations with Hamas might commence. The ceasefire, in effect for over two weeks, is set to expire on March 1, with talks for the next phase supposed to start by Monday.
However, the Israeli government has not yet revealed a negotiating team for the talks or sent them to Qatar or Egypt, where Hamas is sending a delegation. Qatar’s prime minister mentioned the lack of clear details on the talks' start, expressing hope for progress in the coming days.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is focused on discussions in Washington with US President Donald Trump, aiming to address Israel’s positions on the ceasefire deal. The first phase of the truce has seen positive developments, including aid entering Gaza, the opening of the Rafah crossing, and the release of hostages by both sides.
Despite the progress, concerns arise as Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump precedes the start of negotiations for the second phase, potentially breaching the ceasefire terms. Veteran negotiator Gershon Baskin criticized Netanyahu for delaying talks, calling it a violation that endangers the hostages.
President Trump’s involvement in the ceasefire has been notable, with his desire for Gaza residents to leave raising concerns of forced displacement, deemed a potential war crime by the United Nations. Some Israeli ministers have expressed differing views on the ceasefire, with calls for renewed conflict or resettlement of Jews in Gaza.
As Netanyahu navigates the complexities of the ceasefire extension, the region awaits clarity on the next steps and the potential impact of international involvement on the fragile truce.
