Israel’s Last-Minute Demands Threaten Peace Deal

Israel’s last-minute demands have disrupted the near-final ceasefire agreement with Hamas, leaving the future of immediate peace uncertain.

At a Glance

President Biden reaffirmed that no one is above the law while also addressing the Middle East crisis.
Israel introduced new demands in the final stages of ceasefire negotiations with Hamas.
Hamas accepted the broad outline of a ceasefire proposal but requested amendments.
A major sticking point remains Hamas’s demand for a complete Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza.

A Fragile Peace Agreement Imperiled

Israel’s introduction of new demands during the final stages of ceasefire negotiations with Hamas threatens the progress made toward a peaceful resolution. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has publicly disputed aspects of the proposed agreement, calling for the destruction of Hamas’ military and governance capabilities in Gaza. Hamas, on the other hand, has demanded a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in order to release hostages.

The stakes of these negotiations remain high as both parties navigate a tense and historically fraught relationship. Notably, Hamas has accepted the broad outline of the ceasefire agreement but requested certain ‘amendments.’ Among the requested changes, some seem feasible while others are more contentious, further complicating the already delicate situation.

American and International Stances

President Biden has emphasized the importance of respecting the American justice system and democratic principles while also providing updates on efforts to end the crisis in Gaza. The United States has been actively involved in urging Israel to support the ceasefire deal despite internal pressures for continued conflict. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the urgency of the situation during his Middle East tour, promoting a “bridging proposal” designed to narrow gaps between the conflicting parties.

“Hamas this week accepted the broad outline but requested ‘amendments.’” Associated Press

The Security Council has also called for an immediate ceasefire due to the severe impact of the war on civilians and the diminishing prospects for a two-state solution. Over 38,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, displacing nearly the entire population of Gaza, which amounts to approximately two million people.

POTUS updates on efforts to end crisis in Gaza. After intensive diplomacy, Israel has offered a comprehensive new proposal, a road map to an enduring ceasefire and release of all hostages. POTUS lays out terms for 3 phases:

* Phase 1: To last for 6 weeks: full ceasefire, IDF…

— Matthew Levitt (@Levitt_Matt) May 31, 2024

Future Prospects

The new proposal from Israel, relayed through Qatar, aims for a lasting end to the hostilities via a three-phase plan: a full ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the release of hostages, the return of remains, and a surge in humanitarian aid. However, these recent developments cast a shadow on these prospects.

Hamas’s acceptance of the broad outlines gives some hope, but their demands for changes have placed the agreement on shaky ground. As Netanyahu insists on dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities, the prospect of peace hangs in a precarious balance, with the risk of further conflict looming large.

The international community continues to advocate for a resolution that can restore governance in Gaza under a legitimate Palestinian authority and ultimately end the enduring conflict. Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are at the forefront of negotiating a viable agreement that satisfies both parties’ core demands, hoping to pave the way for a sustainable peace in the region.