Fragile Gaza ceasefire faces key deadline. Will it last?
The initial ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, halting 15 months of intense conflict, is nearing its end with the future uncertain. While the first phase, involving hostage releases, concludes, crucial negotiations for a lasting ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza are stalled, raising concerns about renewed hostilities.
Hamas has fulfilled its obligation to release the 25 living hostages stipulated in the initial agreement, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. However, disputes over the treatment of released Palestinian prisoners and the status of over 60 remaining hostages, many presumed dead, have complicated matters. The delay in releasing additional Palestinian prisoners by Israel further exacerbates the fragile situation, casting a shadow over the prospects for extending the ceasefire and achieving a more comprehensive resolution.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
The initial ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, halting 15 months of intense conflict, is nearing its end with the future uncertain. While the first phase, involving hostage releases, concludes, crucial negotiations for a lasting ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza are stalled, raising concerns about renewed hostilities.
Hamas has fulfilled its obligation to release the 25 living hostages stipulated in the initial agreement, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. However, disputes over the treatment of released Palestinian prisoners and the status of over 60 remaining hostages, many presumed dead, have complicated matters. The delay in releasing additional Palestinian prisoners by Israel further exacerbates the fragile situation, casting a shadow over the prospects for extending the ceasefire and achieving a more comprehensive resolution.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
