Negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza have reached a critical impasse, with Israel’s demand to maintain military presence in strategic areas emerging as a major obstacle. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists on controlling the Philadelphi Corridor and Nitzarim crossing, citing security concerns and the need to prevent Hamas from rearming. This stance has been met with strong opposition from Hamas, which views these demands as a significant change in Israel’s position and fears that any concessions will lead to further demands.In an effort to break the deadlock, Israeli intelligence chiefs David Barnea (Mossad) and Ronen Bar (Shin Bet) have arrived in Cairo for talks. The United States has proposed a new compromise plan, which according to Secretary of State Antony Blinken, has been accepted by Israel. However, Hamas has reportedly rejected this proposal, claiming it aligns with Netanyahu’s new conditions and does not include a permanent ceasefire.The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that at least 42 people were killed and 163 injured in the last 24 hours due to Israeli attacks. The conflict has resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths since October 2023, with the health system in Gaza losing more than 70% of its capacity.Despite international pressure, including calls from US President Joe Biden for an ‘urgent agreement’, both sides remain entrenched in their positions. The situation remains volatile, with ongoing Israeli military operations and forced displacement of civilians. UN officials have urged all parties to reach a ceasefire agreement without further delay, warning that failure to do so would make a more stable and secure region unattainable.
Key points
- Israel’s demand to maintain military presence in strategic areas of Gaza is a major obstacle to ceasefire negotiations.
- US has proposed a new compromise plan, accepted by Israel but rejected by Hamas.
- The humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to worsen, with ongoing casualties and displacement.
Contradictions👾While US Secretary of State Antony Blinken claims Israel has accepted the new US proposal, some sources suggest that Netanyahu is actively sabotaging the ceasefire talks.
