The weeks-long ceasefire in Gaza is showing signs of strain as Israel considers extending the first phase of the deal, backed by a U.S. proposal. Meanwhile, Hamas is pushing for second-phase talks aimed at ending the conflict permanently, highlighting a significant gap that stands in the way of peace. 🕊️
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu finds himself torn between political strategy and rising public pressure. His government, part of a far-right coalition, faces relentless scrutiny from coalition partners who demand a "total victory," leaving little room for compromise. ⚖️
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has warned that any deviation from the current stance, which insists on more hostage releases before making further concessions, could destabilize the government. This hardline position is echoed by other far-right politicians like Itamar Ben-Gvir, who resigned from the government over the Gaza ceasefire deal, arguing that only the complete dismantling of Hamas would suffice. 💬
These internal divisions place Netanyahu in a challenging position, as he tries to balance the demands of his far-right allies with urgent humanitarian and political calls for negotiated peace. 🧩
Public support for the war has recently hit a new low. A February poll by Israeli media outlet Channel 12 revealed that 70% of Israelis back the second phase of the ceasefire. Even within the right-wing coalition, 54% support the move, while 36% oppose it.
Anti-war demonstrations have surged across Israel, reflecting the emotional toll of the ongoing conflict. Families of hostages and activists are taking to the streets, urging Netanyahu's government to prioritize the safe return of their loved ones over prolonged military operations. 🗣️
On the negotiation front, Hamas remains steadfast. "Extending the first phase of the deal in the format that Israel wants is unacceptable to the organization," Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem stated to Al-Araby TV, emphasizing that prolonging the current truce without moving towards a comprehensive deal would betray the original agreement.
This highlights a critical impasse: while Israel seeks a temporary extension to gain more time for hostage releases, Hamas insists that negotiations must immediately move toward a more encompassing deal, which would secure Israel's complete withdrawal from Gaza and free all remaining captives. 🤝
The U.S.' staunch pro-Israel stance further complicates the diplomatic efforts. The U.S.-backed proposal suggests extending the first phase of the ceasefire, which allows Israel to maintain its uncompromising security demands. President Donald Trump's proposed plan to take over Gaza has reinforced Israel's position, deepening regional tensions and leaving little room for compromise.
However, Arab states have rejected Washington's stance, offering a counterbalance with their own proposals. At an emergency summit, Arab leaders adopted a $53 billion post-war reconstruction plan for Gaza to prevent displacement of Palestinians. This plan includes an administrative committee of Palestinian technocrats to govern Gaza, which Hamas welcomed but was rejected by the U.S. and Israel for leaving Hamas in power. 🌍
Throughout the conflict, Netanyahu has maintained that a ceasefire is only possible if Hamas is completely dismantled. Observers suggest that Netanyahu's inflexible stance is not just about military strategy but also about maintaining his political power. Facing corruption charges and a fractious coalition, Netanyahu portrays himself as a steadfast defender of national security, reassuring his far-right allies and appealing to a significant portion of voters. 🏛️
Critics argue that his refusal to engage in negotiations that might leave Hamas intact is driven by both a desire to avoid any perception of weakness and the need to fulfill his declared war aims. In this context, the eradication of Hamas is seen as essential not only for ending hostilities but also for securing his political future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
