Gaza Ceasefire at Risk: Pressure Mounts on Netanyahu as Hostages Remain

New details and growing shock over emaciated hostages have intensified pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to extend the fragile Gaza ceasefire beyond its first phase, set to end in three weeks.

Talks on a Second Phase Stagnant

Negotiations for the second phase, which aim to secure further hostage releases and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, were delayed. Israel and Hamas have made minimal progress despite Israeli forces’ recent withdrawal from a Gaza corridor, marking a step towards the truce.

Low-Level Delegation to Qatar

Netanyahu sent a low-level delegation to Qatar, a key mediator, leading to speculation about limited prospects for a breakthrough. Netanyahu returned from a U.S. visit to meet with President Donald Trump, emphasizing the fragile state of peace talks. He is expected to convene security cabinet ministers on Tuesday to discuss the escalating concerns.

Trump’s Concerns Over Hostages

Trump expressed growing frustration with the situation, noting that recently released hostages looked like Holocaust survivors. “They were in horrible condition, emaciated,” he stated while traveling to the Super Bowl. “We need to find a way to bring them back with urgency.”

Israeli soldiers wave to the camera from an APC as they cross from the Gaza Strip into Israel. (AP Photo/ File)

Families Appeal for Urgent Action

The families of remaining hostages are growing increasingly desperate. Ella Ben Ami, daughter of a released hostage, appealed to the cabinet, emphasizing the severity of conditions in Gaza. “These are not human conditions,” Kobi Ohel, father of a remaining hostage, told Israel’s Channel 13, discussing his son’s ordeal chained for over a year.

Ceasefire’s Extension Not Guaranteed

The ceasefire, which began on January 19, has so far held, with hope among all parties for achieving lasting peace. However, the deal remains fragile due to ongoing incidents, including Israeli fire killing three people east of Gaza City and Palestinians clashing with Israeli troops.

Hamas insists on Israel’s complete withdrawal before releasing the last hostages. Conversely, Israel aims to dismantle Hamas’ military and political capabilities before a full withdrawal.

Trump’s Gaza Proposal

Trump proposed relocating Gaza’s population and taking control of the territory, an idea that Israel has expressed openness to as a “revolutionary, creative vision.” However, Hamas, Palestinian leaders, and many countries have rejected the notion, emphasizing its moral, legal, and practical challenges.

Saudi Arabia condemned Netanyahu’s comments, viewing them as a distraction from ongoing crimes by Israel against Palestinians. Qatar also criticized Netanyahu’s statement, calling it a “provocative” violation of international law.

Impact on the West Bank

Violence in the occupied West Bank has surged, with an Israeli military operation targeting Palestinian militants in northern territories. The Palestinian Health Ministry reported two recent killings by Israeli forces, including a pregnant woman, raising international concerns.

Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, expanded the operation to prevent Iran, allied with Hamas, from establishing a foothold in the West Bank.

Conclusion

The Gaza ceasefire, though holding, is fraught with challenges that could undermine its success. The wellbeing of hostages, pressures from international leaders, and political complexities pose significant obstacles. As tensions rise, it remains crucial for all parties to prioritize human life and find a path towards a peaceful resolution.

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