Gaza (Web Desk): Hamas confirmed on Tuesday that talks have begun for the second phase of the ceasefire and prisoner swap agreement concerning Gaza.
In a statement, the group’s spokesman, Abdel Latif al-Qanoua, said that discussions have now shifted to critical issues like shelter, aid, and rebuilding efforts for the people of Gaza.
He accused Israel of intentionally delaying the execution of humanitarian protocols outlined in the ceasefire deal, which Hamas sees as an urgent matter.
According to Qanoua, restoring essential services like hospitals, roads, and water infrastructure is vital to help the region recover from the destruction caused by Israel’s military actions.
On the other hand, Israel announced on Tuesday that it would be sending a team to Qatar this weekend to negotiate the second phase of the ceasefire deal.
A statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office noted that this delegation would focus on the technical aspects needed to move forward with the agreement.
This came after Netanyahu held a meeting with US officials in Washington, including special envoy Steve Witkoff and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz, to discuss the next steps in the negotiations.
The first phase of the ceasefire, which began on January 19, has lasted for six weeks, bringing a halt to the conflict that resulted in the deaths of more than 47,500 people and widespread devastation in Gaza.
During this period, Israel’s military actions left the region severely damaged.
It is pertinent to mention that the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
Israel is also facing legal challenges at the International Court of Justice regarding the alleged genocide during the ongoing conflict.
