An Israeli official has announced that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has appointed a close confidant, Ron Dermer, to lead negotiations for the second stage of the ceasefire with Hamas. Dermer, a U.S.-born Cabinet minister, is widely regarded as Netanyahu’s closest adviser and has previously served as Israel’s ambassador to the U.S. He is known for his strong ties to the Trump White House and his background as a former Republican activist.
Israel and Hamas are yet to engage in discussions for the second phase of the ceasefire, with the first phase set to conclude in early March. The proposal put forth by U.S. President Donald Trump to relocate the Palestinian population from Gaza and assume control of the territory has been unanimously rejected by Palestinians and Arab nations.
Following the outbreak of hostilities in Gaza triggered by Hamas' attack on October 7, 2023, the death toll in Gaza and Lebanon has surpassed 50,000, with nearly 70% of structures in Gaza left in ruins, as reported by health ministries in the region. Additionally, approximately 1,200 individuals lost their lives in Israel during the October 7 attack.
Dermer, who currently serves as Israel’s strategic affairs minister, will lead the Israeli team in the upcoming negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire. Previous discussions were overseen by the heads of the Mossad and Shin Bet security agencies. The second stage aims to bring an end to the conflict, secure the release of all hostages, and facilitate the Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
The official who disclosed Dermer's appointment did so on the condition of anonymity, as the announcement has not been made public. Dermer's role in fostering relations with the U.S. and Gulf Arab countries has been instrumental in his capacity as Israel’s strategic affairs minister.
As the ceasefire negotiations progress, the international community closely watches for developments in the efforts to bring about peace and stability in the region.
