The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has reached a critical stage as the initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire is nearing its expiration. Hamas has firmly rejected Israel’s proposal to extend this first phase, citing concerns over Israel’s commitment to ending the war. The decision has raised fears of renewed violence and uncertainty about the future of peace efforts in the region.

Background of the Ceasefire

The ceasefire, which began on January 19, was structured in two phases. The first phase primarily focused on confidence-building measures, such as exchanging hostages and prisoners, allowing humanitarian aid, and pausing military operations. The goal was to create a foundation for a longer-term truce and diplomatic negotiations.

As the first phase approaches its deadline, tensions have risen over whether to extend it further. Israel has proposed prolonging this phase by an additional 42 days to solidify peace efforts before transitioning to the next stage. However, Hamas has strongly opposed this, arguing that an extension would only delay meaningful discussions about ending the war entirely.

Hamas’s Position

Hamas has made it clear that they will not agree to an extension unless Israel makes a firm commitment to ending the war. According to Hazem Qassem, a spokesperson for Hamas, any attempt to prolong the first phase without a concrete plan for a full ceasefire is unacceptable. Hamas views this proposal as a delaying tactic that could allow Israel to strengthen its military position rather than genuinely work toward a permanent peace agreement.

Hamas insists that for negotiations to move forward, Israel must demonstrate a real commitment to de-escalation, rather than using short-term agreements as a way to maintain control over Gaza. The group has also demanded stronger guarantees from international mediators, arguing that previous ceasefire agreements have often been broken or manipulated in Israel’s favor.

Israel’s Perspective

On the other hand, Israel sees the 42-day extension as a necessary step to stabilize the situation before progressing to the next phase of talks. Israeli officials argue that prolonging the ceasefire will provide more time to negotiate critical issues, including long-term security measures and further prisoner exchanges.

Israel has also emphasized that the current ceasefire has enabled much-needed humanitarian aid to reach Gaza and prevented further bloodshed. Extending the first phase, they argue, would ensure continued humanitarian support and create conditions for a more sustainable peace process. However, without Hamas’s approval, the chances of extending this phase remain uncertain.

Challenges in Negotiations

Despite mediation efforts by countries like Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, indirect talks between Israel and Hamas have stalled. Both sides remain deeply suspicious of each other’s intentions, making it difficult to reach a consensus. Hamas believes Israel is using the ceasefire to buy time, while Israel fears that Hamas may use an extension to regroup and prepare for further attacks.

This deadlock has raised concerns about what will happen once the current ceasefire phase expires. If no agreement is reached, there is a high possibility that fighting will resume, leading to further devastation in Gaza.

Humanitarian Concerns

The ceasefire has provided a temporary relief for civilians in Gaza, allowing the delivery of food, medical supplies, and other essential aid. Organizations like the United Nations have stressed the importance of maintaining the ceasefire to prevent further suffering. However, without a long-term solution, humanitarian efforts will remain vulnerable to the shifting dynamics of the conflict.

What Happens Next?

With Hamas rejecting the extension and Israel standing firm on its proposal, the situation remains highly unpredictable. If an alternative agreement is not reached soon, the ceasefire could collapse, leading to a resurgence of violence.

International mediators are working urgently to bring both sides to a compromise. However, achieving lasting peace requires more than temporary agreements—it demands genuine efforts from both parties to address the root causes of the conflict.

As the deadline for the first phase looms, the world watches closely, hoping that diplomacy can prevent another devastating round of violence in Gaza.