The Palestinian group Hamas, designated as a terrorist organization by the USA and the EU, has outlined three stringent conditions for the second phase of its ceasefire negotiations with Israel. These conditions, as articulated by Hamas representative Hazem Kassem on March 9, 2025, include the exchange of prisoners, the complete withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) from the Gaza Strip, and guarantees ensuring the cessation of hostilities.
Kassem emphatically rejected the prospect of extending the initial phase of the ceasefire agreement, as reported by The Times of Israel. He stated, "Hamas rejects the extension of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement," emphasizing the group's commitment to advancing to the next stage of negotiations.
Understanding the stakes involved, Kassem added, "Hamas understands Washington has the ability to exert pressure," hinting at the significant role the U.S. could play. He made it clear, though, the group would not object to the release of Israeli prisoners who hold American citizenship; this must be part of a broader, comprehensive agreement.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has taken action to advance the discussions. His office announced plans to send a delegation to Doha on March 10, 2025, to facilitate dialogue. This initiative follows unprecedented direct talks between Hamas and U.S. envoy Adam Beres focused on the sensitive issue of hostages, particularly those with American ties. The potential for U.S. intervention looms large as diplomatic channels remain open.
On the Egyptian front, state information services reported earlier this week of Hamas's arrival in Cairo to engage more seriously with negotiations on the second phase of the deal. This move signifies the importance of strong regional alliances, indicating Egypt’s willingness to play mediator. Prime Minister of Qatar, Mohammed Abdel Rahman Al Thani, also weighed in, noting the criticism directed at U.S. Special Representative Steve Witkoff: "The criticism...is aimed at making him reconsider his actions," he remarked, reflecting the tensions surrounding these negotiations.
This juncture arises after the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which expired on March 2, 2025. During this initial stage, 44 Israeli hostages were released, among them eight who were confirmed deceased, with Israel reciprocally freeing nearly 2,000 Palestinians from its prisons. The human costs of such exchanges remain high on both sides of the conflict.
Despite U.S. Special Envoy Witkoff's proposal to extend the ceasefire through Ramadan (until March 29, 2025) and Passover (April 12-19, 2025), Hamas did not embrace the offer. Kassem insisted the focus should shift to the second phase of the agreement, which entails not only the withdrawal of Israeli military but also the release of all remaining captives.
Further complicate matters, reports from The Wall Street Journal cite Israeli Minister of Finance Bezalel Smotrich, indicating future military actions are under consideration. The Israeli government intends to apply increased pressure on Hamas, potentially leading to another troop deployment to Gaza as negotiations appear stagnant.
From Israel’s perspective, approximately 60 hostages are believed to still be held by Hamas, half of whom are presumed dead, creating immense urgency for direct outcomes from negotiations. This fact amplifies the stakes for negotiation outcomes, where citizen safety and security remain the primary concerns for both populations.
The potential for renewed conflict looms as both sides prepare their strategies. While Hamas maintains its stance on clear conditions for any future ceasefire, Israeli leaders ponder their options carefully, balancing military readiness with diplomatic negotiations. With significant players like the U.S. working to mediate, the ability to achieve lasting peace remains tenuous.
This development marks yet another chapter in the long-standing saga of conflict and negotiation, underscoring the need for concerted efforts to resolve deep-rooted issues between these two factions. The next few days may be pivotal, with both communities watching closely to score tangible outcomes from high-stakes negotiations.