Hamas Resumes Ceasefire Negotiations with Israel in Qatar

Hamas has resumed ceasefire negotiations in Doha with Israel, approaching them positively. The Israeli team has extended their stay amid reports of a positive atmosphere. However, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to reject negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire, impacting humanitarian conditions. The ongoing conflict has drawn international legal scrutiny for alleged war crimes committed in Gaza.

On Thursday, Hamas announced that it would resume negotiations with mediators in Doha regarding a ceasefire agreement with Israel. Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem emphasized that the group is approaching these discussions “positively and responsibly,” with the aim of implementing all aspects of the ceasefire to conclude the conflict, withdraw Israeli forces, and initiate the reconstruction of Gaza.

The Israeli public broadcaster KAN has reported a “positive atmosphere” surrounding the negotiations, suggesting optimism about a potential agreement. Furthermore, an Israeli negotiating team in Doha has reportedly opted to prolong their stay to facilitate ongoing discussions regarding the Gaza deal.

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff arrived in Doha on Tuesday to participate in the talks. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declined to engage in negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, preferring to extend the initial phase that concluded in early March.

To exert pressure on Hamas, the Israeli government has suspended electricity supply and the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. In response, Hamas has resisted these conditions, demanding that Israel adhere to the ceasefire terms and commence negotiations for a second phase that would entail a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and a cessation of hostilities.

Currently, a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement, established in January, has put a stop to Israel’s extensive military operations in Gaza, which have reportedly resulted in over 48,500 casualties, primarily affecting women and children, and left the region devastated. Additionally, last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity concerning their actions in Gaza. Israel is also under scrutiny at the International Court of Justice for accusations of genocide related to the conflict.

The resumption of ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel in Qatar represents a critical step towards resolving ongoing hostilities. While there is optimism about the discussions, challenges persist, particularly regarding Israeli conditions and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Notably, previous agreements have halted widespread violence, and international legal actions are emerging against Israeli leadership, highlighting the complex nature of the conflict and the urgent need for a comprehensive resolution.

Original Source: www.yenisafak.com