Qatar Urges Israel and Hamas to Begin Phase Two of Gaza Ceasefire Amid Escalating Conflict
Qatar PM Urges Immediate Negotiations for Gaza Ceasefire’s Second Phase Amid Growing Tensions
On February 2, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Al Thani called for immediate negotiations between Israel and Hamas to kick-start the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire. Speaking during a joint press conference in Doha with Turkey’s Foreign Minister, he expressed that while Qatar has been engaging with both parties, no definitive timeline has been set for the negotiations. However, he is optimistic that talks will begin by February 3.
The second phase of the ceasefire deal is expected to involve crucial actions, including the full release of hostages, the establishment of a permanent ceasefire, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. According to the ceasefire agreement, discussions for phase two should begin before the 16th day of the first phase, which lands on Monday. Qatar has been working closely with mediators and both sides to outline the agenda for these upcoming talks.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that he plans to begin phase two negotiations in Washington on Monday during a meeting with US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff. However, recent escalations have raised concerns about the ceasefire’s longevity. On February 2, Israeli airstrikes in the West Bank raised questions about the durability of the ongoing hostage deal. Hamas responded by calling for an escalation in resistance following the demolition of buildings in Jenin, where Israeli forces have been clashing with local militants since January 21.
The Israeli military operation in Jenin, which started shortly after the ceasefire in Gaza, has already led to significant casualties. At least 25 Palestinians have been killed, including militants and civilians. In retaliation, Israel’s forces have reportedly killed at least 35 militants and detained over 100 individuals. The ongoing conflict in the West Bank complicates the already delicate situation in Gaza and poses challenges for the upcoming negotiations between Hamas and Israel.
