Hamas rebuffs Israel's ceasefire extension proposal amid stalled negotiations

In Gaza, the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement expired on March 1, 2025, yet no negotiations have effectively transitioned into the second phase. This first phase, lasting six weeks, saw the release of 33 hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Despite the cessation of hostilities during this period, officials from both sides have faced challenges in reaching a consensus on how to proceed. Hamas accused Israel of avoiding commitments to withdraw completely from Gaza and dismissing the next steps in the ceasefire process. Following negotiations in Cairo, a senior Hamas official declared that there had been 'no progress' towards formulating a solution for the second phase, which aims to secure the return of remaining hostages and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. As of now, it remains unclear whether discussions will resume, particularly in light of Hamas's demand for unconditional movement towards instant progress while rejecting any proposals that appear to extend the previous phase without engaging in significant negotiations. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also been under pressure domestically to finalize arrangements to ensure the safety and return of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. A recent proposal, pitched by Israel, called for the first phase's continuation under certain conditions, which included hostage exchanges over a 42-day period coinciding with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. However, this proposal has been firmly rejected by Hamas, sparking further tensions in the negotiation process. Throughout this period, humanitarian concerns have escalated as the situation in Gaza remains dire, with the United Nations noting the extensive damage to buildings and loss of life during the ongoing conflict. The international community, including mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, continues to navigate these complex negotiations in hopes of achieving a stable and lasting ceasefire. The urgent need for a resolution is evident, but both parties seem locked in a stalemate, leading to uncertainty about the future of peace efforts in the region.