Israel Changes Rules Amid Gaza Ceasefire Tensions

gaza strip - Israel shifts focus from second phase to new proposal in Gaza ceasefire negotiations, raising concerns of possible return to conflict.

Israel Shifts Strategy in Gaza Ceasefire Talks

Israel's decision to accept a new proposal instead of moving to the second phase of negotiations with Hamas sparks tensions. The initial phase of the ceasefire agreement expired on Saturday, prompting Israel to alter its approach. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office announced the acceptance of a plan proposed by US President Donald Trump's Middle East Envoy, Steve Witkoff, involving a temporary ceasefire in Gaza during the month of Ramadan and the Jewish Passover holiday. Talks for the second phase, which were supposed to start on February 3, were delayed due to Israel's failure to send a delegation. Israel requested an extension of the initial ceasefire stage by a week, demanding the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli captives and humanitarian aid for Gaza. Hamas rejected this offer, leading to the introduction of Witkoff's proposal. According to the new plan, on the first day of the proposed ceasefire, half of the Israeli captives in Gaza will be released alive or deceased.

New Blockade Threats and Military Actions

Netanyahu's office announced a halt in all humanitarian aid to Gaza as a pressure tactic on Hamas to accept the new proposal. Hamas condemned the aid suspension as a war crime and cheap blackmail. In response to Hamas' continued refusal, the Israeli military conducted artillery attacks in different parts of Gaza, resulting in four casualties. Prime Minister Netanyahu hinted at the suspension of humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, stating that there would be no free lunch. Israeli media reports suggest that Netanyahu's government is hindering the start of second-phase negotiations.

2025 Predicted as 'Year of War'

Signs indicate that Israel is not interested in a sustainable ceasefire in Gaza. Since taking office on January 20, the Trump administration has provided $12 billion in military aid to Israel and expedited the delivery process. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signed a declaration utilizing emergency powers to swiftly transfer $4 billion in aid to Israel. Additionally, $3 billion aid was announced last Friday. Reports from Israeli sources suggest that Netanyahu's administration is considering mobilizing 400,000 reserve soldiers due to the prediction that 2025 will be a 'year of war.' These decisions, including the halt of humanitarian aid to Gaza, were reportedly made in coordination with the Trump administration.

Disputing Famine Claims in Gaza

Israel's actions pose a new humanitarian crisis risk for Gazans preparing for Ramadan amidst the rubble. Despite warnings from the UN and aid organizations about the ongoing famine risk in the region, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar dismissed these claims as false. Saar refuted hunger allegations, stating that they have been lies throughout the conflict. According to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), over 19,000 children in Gaza were hospitalized for acute malnutrition in the past four months, with 6 infants freezing to death due to insufficient aid in February alone.