Israel and Hamas Prepare for Phase 2 Ceasefire Negotiations in Gaza Strip

Israel to Dispatch Negotiation Team to Doha
Hamas Demands Withdrawal of Israeli Forces and Other Conditions

Israel and the Palestinian armed faction Hamas continued preparatory work for the second phase of ceasefire negotiations.

According to AFP and other sources, Hamas spokesperson Abdelatif Al-Kanua stated in a press release on the 8th (local time) that the signs regarding discussions for the second phase of ceasefire negotiations are "positive so far."

He said, "Hamas reaffirms its readiness to participate in the second phase of negotiations in a manner that meets the demands of our people (Palestinians in the Gaza Strip)" and added, "We demand an expansion of support for the Gaza Strip and the lifting of the blockade."

The Hamas delegation is conducting preliminary discussions in Cairo, Egypt, over the weekend in preparation for the second phase of ceasefire negotiations. The senior Hamas delegation reportedly emphasized that the second phase of ceasefire negotiations must be conducted promptly for lasting peace in the Gaza Strip. Hamas is demanding the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, lifting of the blockade, reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, and financial support.

In Israel, there was also a statement that preparations for the second phase of ceasefire negotiations are steadily underway. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office said on the same day, "To advance the talks, a delegation will be dispatched to Doha, Qatar, on the 10th." Qatar has been mediating ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas along with Egypt and the United States.

The 42-day first phase ceasefire agreed upon by Israel and Hamas last January expired on the 1st of this month. Since then, Israel has blocked the entry of relief supplies into the Gaza Strip starting from the 2nd and is pressuring Hamas to accept an extension of the ceasefire. However, Hamas insists that the second phase of the ceasefire, based on the original agreement, must proceed with the full release of hostages and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Middle East envoy under the Donald Trump administration, proposed that if both sides agree to extend the ceasefire for about 50 days, Hamas would immediately release half of the remaining hostages during this period, and if a permanent ceasefire is agreed upon, the rest would be released.