Mediators push for 2nd phase of Gaza cease-fire amid Israeli resistance
Hamas members accompany Israeli hostage Omer Shem Tov to be handed over to the Red Cross in Nuseirat in the central Gaza Strip, after his release as part of the seventh hostage-prisoner exchange on February 22, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem stated that mediators are continuing efforts to push Israel into negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. He emphasized Hamas remains committed to all stages of the agreement.
The cease-fire agreement’s second phase is uncertain because of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s reluctance to engage in negotiations. Mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S., are working to ensure its implementation.
Key Developments
- Ongoing mediation efforts
Qassem highlighted mediators are maintaining diplomatic contacts to pressure Israel into resuming negotiations. The second phase is crucial for advancing cease-fire efforts and prisoner exchanges.
- US involvement
White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the U.S. has directly communicated with Hamas regarding the release of American hostages in Gaza.
- Cease-fire stalemate
The first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange, which lasted 42 days, ended on March 1. Netanyahu has been accused of blocking the second-phase talks, which were supposed to begin on February 3.
- Netanyahu’s stance
On March 2, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office announced Netanyahu had decided to halt all humanitarian aid to Gaza. Instead of proceeding with the second phase of the ceasefire, he is seeking to extend the initial phase until the end of Ramadan.
Mediators continue to push for the second phase of the ceasefire, but Netanyahu’s resistance and his decision to cut off aid to Gaza create uncertainty about future negotiations.
