Israel and Hamas signaled readiness on Saturday to advance second-phase ceasefire negotiations, with mediators from Egypt and Qatar working to extend a fragile 42-day truce that began in January. Delegations from both sides are set to resume talks in Doha and Cairo to address unresolved issues, including the release of hostages and governance plans for postwar Gaza.
Mediators Step Up Efforts
Hamas spokesman Abdel-Latif Al-Qanoua cited “positive indicators” for progress while urging Gaza reconstruction and an end to Israel’s blockade. Israel confirmed it will send a delegation to Doha on Monday, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced acceptance of a U.S.-backed mediation initiative.
Egypt Proposes Governance Plan
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi unveiled a Gaza reconstruction plan during an Arab summit, emphasizing cooperation with Palestinians to form an administrative committee of “independent technocrats” to govern the region post-conflict. Hamas later endorsed creating a committee led by “national and independent figures” to oversee Gaza until elections.
Ceasefire Challenges Persist
Despite diplomatic momentum, tensions flared as Israeli airstrikes killed two Palestinians in southern Gaza’s Rafah on Saturday. The Israeli military stated the strikes targeted a suspected smuggling attempt. The January ceasefire framework requires Hamas to release 59 remaining hostages in exchange for extended negotiations toward ending the war—a process stalled by Israel’s current blockade on Gaza.
The Path Ahead: Obstacles and Uncertainties
With the first-phase truce expired last week, talks now hinge on bridging divisions over Gaza’s governance and the hostage-prisoner exchange timeline. Analysts warn that recurring violence and distrust could derail progress, underscoring the complexity of achieving a lasting resolution.
