According to Times of Israel, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined stringent conditions for the second phase of negotiations regarding the hostage deal with Hamas, emphasizing the disarmament of the militant group and its complete removal from Gaza.
During a recent cabinet meeting, Netanyahu conveyed that the Palestinian Authority (PA) should also be excluded from any post-war governance in the region. This stance complicates the potential release of remaining Israeli hostages, as analysts suggest that achieving this goal may require ending the ongoing conflict while Hamas retains some presence in Gaza.
The discussions aimed at finalizing the second phase of the ceasefire agreement were initially expected to commence earlier this month but have faced delays. Netanyahu announced that a separate meeting would be convened before the Israeli delegation departs for Doha, led by his close ally and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer. This decision comes after Netanyahu sidelined key security figures, including heads of the Shin Bet and Mossad, who have expressed frustration over the political hurdles that have hindered earlier negotiations.
Netanyahu urged ministers to maintain confidentiality about the discussions, citing concerns for the hostages’ safety. Currently, 59 Israelis remain in captivity following the completion of phase one of the deal, with 24 believed to be alive and 35 confirmed dead by Israeli authorities. As negotiations are set to begin, Israel is also preparing for a possible resumption of military action, amassing troops and equipment along the Gaza border.
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has indicated that Israel will not accept any continued presence of Hamas or other terrorist organizations in Gaza. He noted that if constructive dialogue emerges during negotiations, Israel may consider extending the ceasefire. However, skepticism remains regarding whether Netanyahu’s demands can align with efforts to secure all remaining hostages.
Hamas has proposed releasing all captives in a single exchange as part of its vision for a lasting ceasefire and full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The group has dismissed Israel’s conditions as unrealistic and has committed to releasing six living hostages and returning four bodies soon.
As both sides navigate these complex negotiations, tensions remain high. The potential for renewed conflict looms large if either party perceives violations of agreements or if negotiations falter. The international community continues to watch closely, hoping for a resolution that could pave the way for lasting peace in a region long plagued by violence.
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