New dispute over ceasefire: Israel and Hamas accuse each other!

New dispute over ceasefire: Israel and Hamas accuse each other!

The situation in the Gaza Strip remains tense as there is currently no ceasefire in sight. The Israeli government under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strictly rejected a ceasefire. The main point of contention in the negotiations is Hamas's demand for US guarantees that the fighting will end. Critics accuse the Israeli government of continuing the conflict for domestic political motives, while the conflict has intensified since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, in which around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 were kidnapped as hostages. In addition to the human losses, the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is catastrophic: According to the Hamas-controlled health authorities, over 54,200 Palestinians are said to have been killed and more than 90,000 wounded.

US President Donald Trump expressed hopes for an early ceasefire on Friday and emphasized that the warring parties are close to reaching an agreement. Meanwhile, Israel's office believes there are between 20 and 23 living hostages and at least 35 bodies in Hamas's hands in the conflict. The Israeli army is carrying out a new major offensive in the Gaza Strip, with reports of scores of deaths on both sides. Netanyahu calls Hamas' response to a hostage release proposal a step backwards, with Hamas official Basem Naim describing the response as unfair and biased.

The status of the negotiations

Negotiations for a ceasefire are underway to prevent escalation in the Middle East. International pressure, particularly from the United States, plays a significant role in this process. If a ceasefire comes about, it will be discussed whether it should be a temporary ceasefire or a permanent ceasefire. US President Biden has proposed a plan that includes a six-week ceasefire and negotiations for a permanent ceasefire. Hamas demands guarantees that the war will end in order to ensure its military and political survival. Israel, on the other hand, wants to maintain military pressure after a potential ceasefire in order to completely destroy Hamas.

In addition, there are tensions regarding the withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip. While Hamas is calling for a complete withdrawal, the Biden plan only calls for a withdrawal from metropolitan areas. Further technical questions regarding the release of the hostages and prisoners also need to be clarified: These concern the number of people to be released and the timetable for their release.

The humanitarian situation

The humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip remains dramatic. Health services have been severely compromised and ongoing fighting has caused untold suffering. Relatives and US Secretary of State Blinken speak of a “last chance” to save the remaining hostages. Of the 109 hostages held by Hamas, more than 40 may no longer be alive, according to reports. This creates enormous emotional distress for the affected families and the urgency to find a solution.

A ceasefire came into force last Sunday, but is overshadowed by uncertainty over how long it will last. In the first phase, three Israeli hostages were released by Hamas after more than 15 months of imprisonment, while in return 90 Palestinian prisoners were released to the West Bank. These developments testify to the fragile situation and the ongoing hope for a sustainable solution to the conflict.

The ongoing fighting and the lack of a clear perspective for peace continue to cast dark shadows over the future of the region and show that the international community is called upon to actively work towards a solution.