Israel has agreed to a six-week extension of the Gaza ceasefire, aligning with both Ramadan and Passover, following the expiration of the initial truce. The decision was confirmed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, with the extension forming part of a US-brokered ceasefire proposal led by envoy Steve Witkoff.
Under the plan, Hamas is expected to release half of the remaining hostages—both living and deceased—on the first day. The remaining captives would only be freed if both sides agree to a permanent ceasefire. Despite Israel’s commitment, Netanyahu’s office claims that Hamas has not yet accepted the proposal.
A crucial four-hour meeting among Israeli officials solidified their stance, reinforcing that the ceasefire could be extended further if Hamas engages in serious negotiations. The 42-day ceasefire window allows Israel to resume military action if talks fail.
Hamas, however, remains firm on progressing to the second phase of the ceasefire, pushing for concrete commitments from the US, Qatar, and Egypt. Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi emphasized that true stability can only be achieved through full implementation of the agreement.
The initial truce, enacted on January 19, halted 15 months of hostilities and facilitated the release of 33 Israeli and five Thai hostages in exchange for 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. With 24 hostages believed to be alive and 39 presumed dead, the next phase of negotiations will be pivotal in shaping the future of the conflict.
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