After weeks of fighting and destruction, Hamas is ready to negotiate the next phase of the Gaza truce, focusing heavily on humanitarian aid and long-term reconstruction efforts. The Palestinian militant group indicated its willingness to engage following the initial ceasefire, which has temporarily halted hostilities between Israel and Hamas.
According to two officials from Hamas who spoke on the condition of anonymity, “Hamas has informed the mediators…that we are ready to start the negotiations for the second phase.” These discussions are particularly pressing as the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, effective since January 19, centered on the release of Israeli hostages and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners. The group expressed concern over maintaining the agreement, urging mediators to pressure Israel not to stall progress.
The pressure is significant, as immediate humanitarian needs are dire. A Palestinian Authority official estimated funding requirements at $6.5 billion to establish temporary housing for over two million people displaced by the conflict before any long-term reconstruction begins. US special envoy Steve Witkoff has projected the rebuilding efforts could extend over 10 to 15 years, stressing the need for urgent action.
Hamas has asserted the immediate requirement for 200,000 tents and 60,000 caravans to provide shelter for homeless Gazans. Truck driver Rami El-Edwan shared the struggle faced by aid workers, stating, “We have trucks carrying aid and tents… but we could not figure out the delay's cause.” Trucks carrying essentials have been lined up at the Rafah border crossing, unable to enter Gaza due to inexplicable hindrances.
Compounding the situation, there is also a clear need for heavy machinery to clear rubble left by bombings. Initial reports indicate significant quantities of aid waiting at the border, but bureaucratic and logistical challenges continue to impede delivery. According to Antoine Renard from the World Food Programme, food imports have dramatically increased, reaching three times the pre-ceasefire levels. Still, there remain significant barriers to the flow of medical supplies and shelter equipment, considered 'dual use' by Israel due to potential military applications.
More than half a million residents have returned to northern Gaza, many facing unimaginable devastation as their homes lie in ruins. Businessman Imad Turk lamented, “I came back to Gaza City to find my house in ruins… We don’t know when the reconstruction will begin, we don’t want to be forgotten by the world.” His experience reflects the broader displacement crisis affecting many Gazans, showcasing their urgent need for shelter and basic living conditions.
The international community, including Egypt, Qatar, and other countries, has expressed willingness to assist; nonetheless, Palestinian officials have pointed fingers at Israel for slowing down the process. Egypt and Qatar played pivotal roles as mediators for this ceasefire, but there has been no sign of ease from Israeli authorities.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent visit to Washington underscored a possible shift of focus from military engagements to humanitarian concerns surrounding Gaza. He is scheduled to meet with President Trump as discussions on the potential second phase of the Gaza ceasefire are expected to take place.
During this visit, which marks Netanyahu as the first foreign leader to meet with Trump after his inauguration, the agenda includes maintaining Israel’s military foothold and ensuring the release of all captives. Importantly, ministers from the Israeli side have warned against Hamas's intentions to continue hostilities if Israel does not uphold its obligations under the ceasefire agreement.
The backdrop of these negotiations is laden with apprehension. Protests are anticipated during Netanyahu’s trip, reminiscent of his previous visit where he faced criticism over his government's actions. Some lawmakers may also choose to avoid participating or voice dissent against US support for Israel amid criticisms of human rights violations during the conflict.
The discussions to extend the current truce and provide humanitarian aid appear to have gained momentum, driven by dire conditions on the ground. Hamas’s readiness to negotiate, coupled with international attention on the humanitarian catastrophe facing Gaza, highlights the urgent need for cooperation among all parties involved to navigate the pathway toward peace and recovery.
Without quick and effective action, the looming humanitarian crisis may deepen, leaving millions vulnerable as they struggle to rebuild their lives amid conflict devastation. Both political and humanitarian fronts must align to tackle the pressing needs within the war-torn region.