Amid ongoing tensions, the Israeli government has decided to prolong the Gaza ceasefire for an additional six weeks, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office shortly after the initial ceasefire phase concluded. The ceasefire, facilitated by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, includes a plan for hostage releases and sets the stage for future negotiations.
Israel Extends Gaza Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Negotiations
Israel Extends Gaza Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Negotiations
Israel approves a six-week extension of the Gaza ceasefire, coinciding with major religious holidays, heightening hopes for diplomatic progress.
The latest development comes after Netanyahu held a lengthy meeting to discuss the ceasefire's future. While the Israeli government is ready to commence negotiations with Hamas, they claim that the militant group has shown reluctance to accept the Witkoff plan. Conversely, Hamas has indicated it would only agree to an extension of the ceasefire if guarantees for subsequent phases are provided by American, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators.
The newly announced ceasefire extension encompasses the Muslim Ramadan and Jewish Passover periods, hoping to foster stability during these significant times. The first phase of the ceasefire had effectively halted 15 months of hostilities, allowing the exchange of hostages and prisoners, but negotiations for a second phase involving the release of remaining hostages and troop withdrawal have made marginal progress.
As tensions continue between Israel and Hamas, Palestinians living in Gaza face severe hardships, attempting to rebuild amidst the fragile peace. The larger backdrop of conflict arose after a deadly Hamas attack in October 2023, leading to an immense Israeli military response resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The international community watches closely as the situation evolves.
The newly announced ceasefire extension encompasses the Muslim Ramadan and Jewish Passover periods, hoping to foster stability during these significant times. The first phase of the ceasefire had effectively halted 15 months of hostilities, allowing the exchange of hostages and prisoners, but negotiations for a second phase involving the release of remaining hostages and troop withdrawal have made marginal progress.
As tensions continue between Israel and Hamas, Palestinians living in Gaza face severe hardships, attempting to rebuild amidst the fragile peace. The larger backdrop of conflict arose after a deadly Hamas attack in October 2023, leading to an immense Israeli military response resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The international community watches closely as the situation evolves.
