Gaza mediators Qatar and Egypt call for next steps of the truce • FRANCE 24 English

Key Concepts:

• Gaza Ceasefire Deal (Phase Two)
• Hamas Disarmament
• International Peacekeeping Force
• Pan-Arab Military Force
• Israeli Hostage Return
• German-Israeli Relations

Doha Forum and Ceasefire Negotiations

Mediators Qatar and Egypt, at a forum in Doha, have urged Israel to advance the Gaza ceasefire deal by withdrawing its troops. The proposed agreement, supported by the United States, includes the replacement of Israeli forces with an international peacekeeping force. A significant obstacle to progressing to the next phase of the deal is the disarmament of Hamas.

Hamas's Stance on Disarmament

Hamas has indicated a willingness to disarm, a condition for moving to phase two of the agreement. For months, they have stated their readiness to disarm provided a pan-Arab military force replaces the Israeli army in Gaza. However, currently, no such force exists, and there is no agreement on its deployment.

Doha Forum Limitations

The Doha forum, while bringing together key stakeholders in the Israel-Gaza conflict, notably excluded Israel, Hamas, and the United States. This absence of crucial parties renders the discussions important regionally but potentially unproductive, as their agreement is essential for any progress.

Israeli Public Pressure and Hostage Situation

In Israel, there is considerable public pressure on the Prime Minister to delay moving to phase two of the ceasefire deal until all Israeli hostages are returned. The return of the remaining hostages is still pending.

German Chancellor's Visit to Israel

German Chancellor Friedrich Mertz is currently in Israel and is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Following meetings with Foreign Minister Gideon Sar and President Isaac Herzog on Saturday, Mertz reiterated Germany's steadfast support for Israel as a vital partner.

German Criticism and Call for Ceasefire

Despite reaffirming support, Mertz has previously voiced criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza and has taken steps to restrict the sale of weapons used in the conflict. He is also advocating for the advancement of the next phase of the ceasefire. Mertz stated, "We now hope that this peace process can enter the next phase and, in particular, that Hamas can be disarmed because this war is being waged exclusively by Hamas and if Hamas lays down its arms this war will be over. Then there will be a future for the region and there will also be a future for Gaza."

Synthesis/Conclusion

The current situation regarding the Gaza ceasefire deal is at an impasse, primarily due to the unresolved issue of Hamas disarmament and the absence of a concrete plan for an international or pan-Arab peacekeeping force. While mediators and international leaders like Germany are pushing for de-escalation and a move to the next phase, the critical players – Israel, Hamas, and the US – are not all directly engaged in the current discussions. The return of Israeli hostages remains a significant domestic concern in Israel, influencing political pressure. The German Chancellor's visit highlights the international community's desire for peace and a future for Gaza, contingent on Hamas laying down its arms.