Concerns Grow over Possibility of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Agreement
According to information from four American officials who have knowledge of the negotiations, President Biden’s administration is increasingly doubtful that Israel and Hamas will reach a wide-ranging agreement to cease fire within the current framework.
The agreement is structured in three stages. The first stage involves a cessation of hostilities for six weeks to allow for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, the release of hostages, and Palestinian prisoners. The second stage calls for a complete cessation of hostilities and the release of remaining hostages. The reconstruction of Gaza is planned for the third stage, according to Politico.
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the terms of the first stage, but they have different views on how to formally end the war, two officials stated. Despite initial optimism about the agreement, officials now believe that these differences may cast doubt on any deal. The second stage is a «stumbling block» for Israel and Hamas. Hamas insists on the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, but Israeli officials refuse to agree to this until Hamas is completely eliminated – a task that could take months, if not years.
Hamas will not agree to any part of the deal, including the initial ceasefire, until Israel accepts its demands. Essentially, Hamas has issued an «all or nothing» ultimatum that Israel is unlikely to accept. Neither side shows readiness to compromise, raising concerns among White House officials who are worried about the possibility of prolonged fighting for several months.
American officials believe that even if Israel and Hamas reach an initial short-term ceasefire agreement, there is a high likelihood that it will be violated. Ceasefire agreements in Gaza have had a history of failure. Previously, both Hamas and Israel have experienced multiple failures in waging war in Gaza. Only with a complete defeat of the parties in Gaza can a lasting peace be achieved. Additionally, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
