Stalemate in Hamas-Israel Ceasefire Negotiations in Egypt

Ceasefire negotiations in Egypt between Israel and Hamas have stalled, with both sides unwilling to compromise. Hamas rejected a U.S. proposal and insists on a transition to the second phase of a deal. Israel demands total demilitarization of Gaza, complicating the continuation of talks. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened as Israel halts assistance and electricity supply, raising fears of renewed conflict.

Negotiations in Egypt concerning the Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have reached a standstill. Sources indicate that neither party is willing to make necessary compromises. Hamas has rejected a U.S. proposal introduced by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, demanding a shift to the second phase of an agreement previously brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.

The first phase of the agreement included a 42-day truce and the release of 33 hostages, with around 2,000 Palestinians consequently released from Israeli custody. The anticipated second phase proposes the release of 59 remaining hostages held by Hamas in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians in Israeli prisons, while also addressing a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

The U.S. proposal, rejected by Hamas, suggested a 50-day truce and the release of five to 11 living hostages, alongside the remains of additional deceased captives. Mr. Witkoff described this offer as “compelling” but noted that Hamas’s response was “unacceptable,” warning that time is running out to reach an agreement.

Despite leaving Egypt, Hamas negotiators claimed to have engaged in productive discussions focused on advancing the ceasefire agreement. In contrast, Israeli negotiators remained for additional talks but have reportedly demanded that Hamas leaders exit Gaza. The initial ceasefire phase, activated on January 19, 2025, succeeded in halting over 15 months of conflict triggered by a Hamas-led attack on Israel.

Hamas has expressed a willingness to release certain hostages while insisting on negotiations regarding the next steps. On the other hand, Israel emphasizes that the second phase must also entail the complete demilitarization of Gaza and the removal of Hamas.

In response to Hamas’s refusal to address these terms, Israel has ceased humanitarian assistance to Gaza and cut off electricity supplies, thereby exacerbating the humanitarian situation in the region.

The ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel in Egypt remain unresolved, primarily due to significant differences regarding the terms of the next phases. Hamas’ insistence on transitioning to the second phase without meeting Israeli conditions contrasts sharply with Israel’s demands for demilitarization and the removal of Hamas from Gaza. The refusal to compromise from both sides has raised concerns over the potential for renewed conflict, while Israel’s recent actions have intensified humanitarian pressures in Gaza.

Original Source: www.thenationalnews.com