Hamas has rejected Israel’s proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, calling it unacceptable and accusing Israel of stalling negotiations for the second phase. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, 2025, was set to expire on Saturday, March 1, and Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem confirmed that no talks for the second phase had taken place.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Qassem placed the blame squarely on Israel, accusing the country of seeking to recover more hostages from Gaza while keeping open the possibility of resuming hostilities. He reiterated Hamas’s commitment to following through with all terms of the ceasefire agreement and demanded that the second phase proceed as initially planned, which includes the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the return of all remaining captives.
While Hamas insisted on moving forward with the second phase, Israel suggested that it could extend the first phase of the ceasefire in exchange for the release of additional hostages. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed on Thursday that Israel was ready to extend the first phase if it resulted in more captives being freed, though Hamas has refused this proposal.
Mediators from Qatar, the United States, and Egypt have been involved in talks, with Israel sending representatives to Cairo for intensive discussions earlier in the week. Despite these talks, no agreement was reached, and there is growing concern that a breakdown in negotiations could lead to the resumption of violence. The United Nations has called the coming days “critical,” urging both parties to hold to the ceasefire and prevent a collapse of the deal.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with international organizations warning that the ceasefire must continue to allow for the delivery of aid. The World Food Programme has stressed that humanitarian access is essential, and any resumption of fighting would further devastate the Palestinian population, already suffering from 15 months of war.
However, the ceasefire has not been without its issues. The Gaza Government Media Office has reported more than 350 violations by Israel, including military incursions, air strikes, and restrictions on aid. These violations have contributed to growing frustrations within Gaza, where civilians continue to face hardships while negotiations remain at an impasse.
As both sides remain entrenched in their positions, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain, and the risk of renewed fighting looms large.
