Hamas demands start of second phase of Gaza ceasefire, Israel backs extension of first phase

Hamas has today demanded the commencement of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement with Israel in the Gaza Strip, which was supposed to begin today under a deal reached in January. 

However, Israel is in favor of extending the first phase and supports an alternative ceasefire plan, proposed by the United States, to last until mid-April.

Israel Supports U.S. Plan for Ceasefire Extension

In a statement released by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, Israel has adopted the plan put forward by U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. The plan includes a temporary ceasefire during the Ramadan and Jewish Passover periods.

Israel has expressed its readiness to negotiate the details of the plan, which includes the immediate release of half of the hostages still held in Gaza, whether dead or alive. The remaining hostages will be released by the end of the ceasefire, provided an agreement is reached for a final cessation of hostilities.

Hamas: “Israel Is Backtracking on Agreements”

Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi accused Israel of backtracking, stressing that “continuous maneuvers will not bring the hostages back but will only prolong their suffering.”

Hamas insists that the second phase of the ceasefire should be implemented, which would involve the definitive end of the war and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel, on the other hand, refuses to commit to a ceasefire, preferring to extend the first phase, with gradual releases of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

New U.S. Military Aid for Israel

Shortly after the announcement of Israel’s decision, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the approval of urgent military aid worth nearly $4 billion for Israel, aimed at enhancing its defense capabilities.

Ceasefire Agreement Timeline

The Israel-Hamas ceasefire came into effect on January 19, following 15 months of conflict that began with Hamas’s attack on Israeli territory on October 7, 2023.

The ceasefire agreement consists of three phases:

1. First Phase: Hamas released 25 hostages and delivered 8 bodies in exchange for the release of 1,800 Palestinian prisoners.
2. Second Phase: This includes the complete release of all hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
3. Third Phase: This involves the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, with the United Nations estimating the cost will exceed $53 billion.

The agreement also includes a provision for an automatic extension of the first phase if negotiations for the second phase are ongoing.

Pressure on Netanyahu from Far-Right Government Allies

Israel’s decision not to commit to the second phase is also linked to domestic political pressure. Netanyahu is facing pressure from his far-right allies, who oppose ending the war and demand the complete eradication of Hamas.

UN: “Efforts Must Be Made to Prevent Resumption of Hostilities”

UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ spokesperson emphasized the importance of efforts to prevent the resumption of hostilities, warning that such an event would have catastrophic consequences.

“A permanent ceasefire and the release of all hostages are crucial to avoid further escalation and humanitarian disaster,” the UN stated.

Ongoing Disagreements

Israel demands the full demilitarization of Gaza, while Hamas insists it will not withdraw from the area. The two sides remain at an impasse, with the international community attempting to avert another outbreak of violence in the region.