Should Peace Talks Ensure the Withdrawal of the Israeli Army?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Hamas and PIJ emphasize the need for a ceasefire.
- A complete withdrawal of Israeli forces is demanded.
- Opening of crossings for humanitarian aid is essential.
- Reconstruction efforts must be prioritized post-conflict.
- The negotiations are in a critical phase.
Gaza, July 14 (NationPress) The Hamas organization alongside the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) asserted that the current indirect discussions with Israel must culminate in a cessation of hostilities, complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, reopening of border crossings, and reconstruction efforts.
The comments were made during a Sunday meeting between the leaders of the two factions, although the specific location was not disclosed, as reported by Xinhua news agency in a statement from Hamas.
The Hamas delegation was led by Muhammad Darwish, head of the Shura Council, while the PIJ delegation was headed by Secretary-General Ziyad al-Nakhalah.
According to the statement, “The two factions deliberated on the recent developments in ongoing negotiations mediated by international stakeholders and the responses from the Israeli side regarding proposals aimed at reaching a ceasefire agreement.”
Furthermore, the statement highlighted that any prospective agreement must meet the aspirations of the Palestinian people, particularly in bringing an end to the conflict, which has resulted in significant human suffering and numerous civilian casualties.
As reported by a Hamas source, the indirect negotiations taking place in the Qatari capital Doha are entering a “critical and complex phase.” The source cautioned that Israel's persistent “intransigence” could jeopardize the progress of the talks.
The Hamas source mentioned that both delegations assessed the responses from Israel, identifying that the principal hurdle in advancing discussions is Israel’s “unwillingness to negotiate withdrawal maps.”
It was noted that a preliminary withdrawal of Israeli forces to the lines established in January is necessary, with assurances of a comprehensive withdrawal from the Gaza Strip following the negotiation process.