Mediators are encountering a new obstacle in advancing the Gaza ceasefire agreement into its subsequent phases, coinciding with the return of US presidential envoy Jared Kushner to Israel on Monday.
Unresolved Issues and New Challenges
Several key issues remain unresolved in the ongoing negotiations:
- Hamas's disarmament.
- The reconstruction and future governance of Gaza.
- The deployment of an international security force within the territory.
A recent challenge involves an estimated number of Hamas fighters located in tunnels beneath Rafah, situated behind the "Yellow Line," which designates the area under Israeli control.
Proposals and Positions Regarding Fighters
Last week, US special envoy Steve Witkoff proposed an amnesty for fighters who surrender, suggesting this could serve as a model for wider application in Gaza. Witkoff stated 200 fighters were involved, though this figure is unconfirmed.
Reports indicate that Mr. Kushner and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed this matter during their meeting in Jerusalem on Monday. Hamas has previously rejected surrender, requesting safe passage for its fighters, a demand Israel has declined.
An Israeli government spokesperson confirmed discussions between Netanyahu and Kushner focused on "phase one," which involves the return of remaining hostages, and the "future of phase two," encompassing the disarmament of Hamas, the demilitarization of Gaza, and ensuring Hamas's exclusion from Gaza's future governance.
Conflict Background and Ceasefire Progress
The conflict in Gaza commenced with a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 251 individuals taken hostage. Subsequent Israeli actions in Gaza have led to over 69,000 deaths, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry, which the UN regards as reliable.
The initial phase of the ceasefire, implemented last month, aimed to halt hostilities, facilitate the return of all hostages, and increase humanitarian aid access to Gaza. Under this agreement:
- Twenty living hostages and the remains of 24 deceased captives have been released. Four bodies reportedly remain in Gaza.
- Israel has released 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,718 detainees from Gaza held without charge or trial.
- Israel has also transferred the remains of 315 Palestinians from Gaza.
Both Israel and Hamas have made accusations of truce violations. Israel claims Hamas has deliberately delayed the return of hostage remains, while Hamas alleges Israel has caused at least 240 Palestinian deaths and restricted aid entry.