A high-level Hamas delegation convened with Egyptian Intelligence Agency leader Hassan Rashad in Cairo on 24/11 to discuss the progress of the ceasefire agreement with Israel and the "nature of phase two". The delegation included Muhammad Darwish, Chairman of the Hamas Leadership Council, and other senior members. While specific details of the meeting were not disclosed, Hamas affirmed its commitment to the initial phase of the agreement. However, the group expressed concern that "repeated violations" by Israel could jeopardize the entire peace process.

To address these concerns, Hamas proposed that the international community establish a clear monitoring mechanism for the Gaza Strip ceasefire. This mechanism, coordinated by mediating parties, would document violations and enable immediate action to prevent escalating tensions.

Hamas members search for bodies of deceased Israeli hostages in Khan Younis, Gaza on 19/10. *Photo: AP*

The Israeli campaign in the Gaza Strip, ongoing since 10/2023, has resulted in nearly 70,000 deaths and over 170,900 injuries, with women and children forming the majority of casualties, according to AFP statistics. Hamas's media office in Gaza has accused Israel of causing 342 Palestinian deaths and hundreds of injuries since the ceasefire took effect on 10/10.

During phase one, Hamas handed over 20 living Israeli hostages and 27 of the 28 bodies the group was holding. Israel, however, rejected two of the body handovers. Israeli officials stated that one case was not an Israeli citizen, and the partial remains of the other had been found earlier.

Phase two is expected to include the deployment of an international force in Gaza, tasked with stabilizing the situation. This objective is outlined in a US-drafted resolution adopted by the United Nations Security Council.

The "Yellow Line" boundary between areas where the Israeli military maintains a presence and areas still controlled by Hamas under the October ceasefire agreement. *Graphic: BBC*

However, Israel has consistently stated it will only begin negotiations for phase two after Hamas hands over all hostage bodies. Hamas, meanwhile, asserts that recovering bodies is difficult due to the extensive destruction in the Gaza Strip after two years of conflict.

In an announcement on 23/11, Hamas also raised the issue of Qassam Brigades fighters trapped beyond the "Yellow Line" ceasefire boundary in Rafah. The group stated that contact with these fighters had been lost and appealed to mediators for assistance. Israeli officials have repeatedly and publicly called on Hamas fighters to surrender for interrogation in Israel or accept "destruction if they resist".

Thanh Danh (According to AFP, AA)