Israel and Hamas are set to restart negotiations on the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire this week, officials confirmed on Tuesday. This comes as Hamas announced plans to return more hostages, including the bodies of two young children.
Hostage Releases Set for This Week
Khalil al-Hayya, a senior Hamas leader in Gaza, revealed that the bodies of four hostages, including members of the Bibas family, would be handed over on Thursday, followed by the release of six living hostages on Saturday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed an agreement had been reached in Cairo, facilitated by mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. However, Israeli officials have stated that all deceased hostages will undergo identification before any names are officially released.
Delayed Talks Finally Moving Forward
Negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire deal were initially scheduled to begin on February 4 but faced multiple delays. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar assured reporters that discussions would begin this week, marking a crucial step in efforts to end the ongoing conflict.
The current ceasefire, which took effect on January 19, was designed as a three-phase plan to gradually de-escalate hostilities. However, Israel has expressed uncertainty about the next steps, particularly regarding the future governance of Gaza.
The Bibas Family Tragedy
The Bibas family has been at the center of global attention since their abduction on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a deadly cross-border attack on Israel. The attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis.
The family’s father, Yarden Bibas, was released earlier this month, but his wife, Shiri, remains unaccounted for. Hamas claimed in late 2023 that Shiri and their two young children, Kfir (less than a year old at the time of abduction) and Ariel (then 4), were killed in Israeli airstrikes. Israel has not confirmed these reports, stating only that they have grave concerns for their safety.
Challenges in Reaching a Long-Term Agreement
While the first phase of the ceasefire has remained intact—leading to the return of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners—negotiations for the next phase are expected to be far more difficult.
The key sticking point is the administration of post-war Gaza. Israeli officials have made it clear that they will not allow Hamas or any other militant group to maintain control of the enclave.
“If we see that negotiations are constructive, we will stay engaged and may extend the ceasefire,” Foreign Minister Saar stated.
Israel to Allow Mobile Homes for Displaced Gazans
As part of the ceasefire efforts, Israel has agreed to allow mobile homes into Gaza to provide shelter for displaced Palestinians who have been struggling with winter conditions. Hamas previously accused Israel of delaying this humanitarian aid, threatening to halt hostage releases until the issue was resolved.
Trump’s Controversial Proposal on Gaza
The ceasefire discussions have also been overshadowed by former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent remarks suggesting that Palestinians should be relocated, and that Gaza could be transformed into a high-end waterfront development under U.S. control.
These comments have been widely condemned by Palestinian leaders, Arab states, and many Western allies, who view the suggestion as a form of forced displacement. Israeli leaders, however, have indicated support for allowing Gazans to leave if they wish to do so.
What Comes Next?
As negotiations resume, all eyes will be on the mediators in Cairo. The fate of the remaining 64 hostages, as well as the long-term governance of Gaza, will be at the center of discussions.
While progress has been made, a lasting resolution remains uncertain. Will Israel and Hamas reach a sustainable peace agreement, or will tensions reignite? The next few days will be critical in shaping the future of the region.
