US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed that Israel has agreed to the withdrawals of IDF forces from Gaza in line with a recent mediator’s proposal to move closer towards a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The proposal outlines a schedule and locations for the withdrawals, which Israel has agreed to, despite reports suggesting otherwise. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made statements indicating that certain corridors, such as the Philadelphi corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border and the Netzarim corridor, will not be vacated, as they are deemed strategic military and political assets.
The US proposal for a ceasefire deal is structured in three phases and includes the full withdrawal of the IDF from Gaza. Israeli officials have emphasized the importance of finding a solution to better control the Egypt-Gaza border, which has been used for smuggling activities. The location of troops in the Philadelphi corridor and the issue of allowing Palestinians to return home have been key points of contention in the ceasefire negotiations. Hamas has insisted on a complete IDF withdrawal from Gaza and the return of citizens to their homes.
Blinken reiterated that Netanyahu has confirmed Israel’s agreement to the detailed plan for withdrawal as part of the bridging proposal. However, US officials have expressed concern over Netanyahu’s comments about not withdrawing from certain areas, labeling them as “maximalist statements” that are not conducive to reaching a ceasefire deal. Blinken emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement that would end the fighting in Gaza and secure the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Negotiations between Hamas and Israel are ongoing, with expert negotiators expected to reconvene in Cairo to finalize the details of a potential ceasefire agreement. While US officials acknowledge the urgency of reaching an agreement, they are also lowering expectations of a swift resolution. Blinken stressed the need for flexibility from all parties in order to achieve implementation agreements, once Hamas agrees to the proposed ceasefire.
Blinken concluded his trip to the region with visits to Egypt and Qatar, where he held productive meetings with key officials. Hamas released a statement criticizing Blinken and President Biden, accusing them of being misleading about the group’s position on a ceasefire agreement. The group reiterated its positive engagement in previous negotiations and blamed Netanyahu for obstructing progress. While Hamas has not officially responded to the bridging proposal, Egypt is pressing for a prompt reply to move the process forward.
There is a sense of urgency to reach a ceasefire agreement, with Blinken emphasizing the importance of seizing the current opportunity to secure the release of hostages, establish a ceasefire, and set a path towards lasting peace and security. Despite the challenges and potential obstacles, efforts are being made to continue discussions on technical details and commitments to implement the ceasefire agreement. The hope is that all parties involved will come to the table with a willingness to compromise and work towards a resolution that benefits all stakeholders in the region.
