No progress in 2nd phase Israel-Hamas ceasefire talks
Dark clouds loom over Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip on December 31, 2024, amid the continuing war between Israel and the militant Hamas group. - The majority of Gaza's 2.4 million people have been displaced, often multiple times, by the war that began with Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. With many displaced living in tent camps, the coming winter is raising serious concerns. (AFP Photo)
The latest round of talks regarding the second phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has made no progress so far according to the Guardian. A senior Hamas official stated that it was unclear whether the talks would resume on Saturday.
These discussions were meant to extend the fragile truce and secure the release of additional hostages still in Gaza.
However, by Saturday morning, no consensus had been reached, and Hamas accused Israel of delaying the second phase.
Details
The ceasefire, which began on Jan. 19, 2025, came after more than 15 months of conflict that started on Oct. 7, 2023.
During the first phase of the ceasefire, Gaza militants released 25 living hostages and returned eight bodies to Israel in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
The second phase was intended to release more hostages still in Gaza and work towards a permanent end to the conflict.
Israel sent a delegation to Cairo, where Egypt, acting as a mediator, announced that “intensive talks” had started.
However, by early Saturday, no progress had been made, with a Hamas source accusing Israel of delaying the talks. There was also an absence of a Hamas delegation in Cairo, although Palestinian sources indicated that efforts to resolve the deadlock were still ongoing.
Background
The ceasefire agreement initially resulted in the release of 25 hostages and the return of the bodies of eight others.
However, the second phase was designed to further secure the release of hostages still in Gaza and potentially bring a more permanent end to the conflict.
Despite some progress, such as the release of nearly 1,800 Palestinian prisoners by Israel in exchange for the captives in Gaza, the second phase remains delayed, with ongoing discussions aimed at breaking the deadlock.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with widespread destruction, displacement, and hunger.
Over 69% of buildings in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, and the war has left much of the population displaced, with limited access to basic needs.
