Israel prepares to enter negotiations on the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, aiming for lasting peace and stability in the region.
At a Glance
- Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal
- Talks focus on exchanging remaining Israeli hostages for Palestinian detainees
- Israel demands complete demilitarization of Gaza
- Negotiations expected to start this week following security cabinet meeting
- Israel rejects “Hezbollah model” and Palestinian Authority presence in Gaza
Israel Enters New Phase of Gaza Ceasefire Negotiations
In a significant development for Middle East peace efforts, Israel is set to begin negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar announced that these talks will focus on exchanging the remaining Israeli hostages for Palestinian detainees. The move comes after a crucial security cabinet meeting, signaling Israel’s commitment to diplomatic solutions in the ongoing conflict.
The negotiations, initially scheduled to start on February 3, are now expected to commence this week. This delay highlights the complex nature of the discussions and the delicate balance required to achieve progress. Israel’s approach to these talks reflects a strategic shift towards more comprehensive peace-building efforts in the region.
Israel, Hamas are marking 500 days of #Gaza conflict. The first phase of the ceasefire deal is set to expire in about 2 weeks, with negotiations for the next phase still ongoing. Gazans are hoping for a lasting ceasefire to begin rebuilding and returning to their ordinary lives. pic.twitter.com/gCuHfVKUgc
— CGTN Global Watch (@GlobalWatchCGTN) February 18, 2025
Israel’s Stance on Gaza’s Future
A key aspect of Israel’s negotiation strategy is its demand for the complete demilitarization of Gaza. This stance underscores Israel’s priority on ensuring long-term security in the region. Foreign Minister Sa’ar emphasized this point, stating Israel’s opposition to any arrangement that could threaten its safety.
Furthermore, Israel has made it clear that it rejects a “Hezbollah model” in Gaza and opposes the presence of the Palestinian Authority in the region. This position reflects Israel’s determination to prevent the establishment of any hostile forces near its borders, a concern that has long shaped its foreign policy in the region.
Hamas expects indirect negotiations with Israel for the second phase of the ongoing Gaza ceasefire to begin “early next week”, an official of the Palestinian group has said.
🔴 LIVE updates: https://t.co/BCL65spLHE pic.twitter.com/Xvpe7nRjhQ
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) February 14, 2025
International Involvement and Alternative Plans
The negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of international interest and involvement. Israel is aware of an alternative plan proposed by Arab states for Gaza, which counters U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion for American control over redevelopment efforts. This highlights the complex web of international interests at play in the region.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has shown openness to exploring the U.S. proposal, indicating Israel’s willingness to consider various approaches to achieve lasting peace. However, Israel remains firm in its opposition to transferring civilian control of Gaza from Hamas to the Palestinian Authority, maintaining its stance on direct involvement in the region’s governance.
