Israeli delegation in Qatar for ceasefire talks

An Israeli delegation arrived in Qatar on Sunday to discuss the second phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s spokesman. This coincided with the Israeli army’s withdrawal from the Netzarim Corridor in Gaza, a key provision of the ceasefire.

Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas are expected to resume this week, following Netanyahu’s US visit. A source in Netanyahu’s office, cited by Reuters, indicated that the current discussions will focus on technical matters. Broader issues, such as Gaza’s post-war governance, will be addressed later.

Last week, US President Donald Trump suggested that Palestinians should be evacuated from Gaza and the territory should belong to the US. While Washington pledged to rebuild Gaza, Trump’s statement sparked controversy. The administration later clarified that Palestinians could return after the territory is cleared of unexploded ordnance and rebuilt. Despite this clarification, Trump’s plan has been labeled ‘ethnic cleansing’ in some circles, while Israel expressed support for the statements. Netanyahu’s security cabinet is scheduled to meet to discuss both Trump’s proposal and the next phase of the ceasefire.

The initial six-week ceasefire, which began on January 19, involves the release of approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Hamas’ release of 33 Israeli hostages.

The US, Qatar, and Egypt brokered the ceasefire agreement. On Sunday, the Israeli army completed its withdrawal from the Netzarim Corridor, which divides Gaza. Following the withdrawal announcement, numerous Palestinians were observed traversing the area. Hamas-led police managed the resulting traffic queues. Reuters images showed Israeli military vehicles leaving the coastline and heading towards the Israeli border.

The ceasefire agreement also includes the deployment of special security personnel, including former US soldiers, to oversee vehicle movement through the Netzarim Corridor.