Israel pushes for complete Gaza demilitarisation in ceasefire talks: Video

EU-Israel Association Council in Brussels

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar attends a press conference with High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission Kaja Kallas, and EU commissioner for the Mediterranean Dubravka Suica on the day of an EU-Israel Association Council with European Union foreign ministers in Brussels, Belgium, February 24, 2025. REUTERS/Yves Herman 

Source: REUTERS

Israel has introduced new conditions for advancing to the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, demanding the complete demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the removal of Hamas from the territory. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar emphasised that Israel "will not accept the continued presence of Hamas or any other terrorist groups" in Gaza.

These stipulations were not part of the original ceasefire agreement, which primarily focused on the exchange of hostages and prisoners, increased humanitarian aid, and a partial Israeli troop withdrawal.

The second phase of the truce aims to secure the release of Israeli hostages and address conditions for a potential full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

The ceasefire, initiated on January 19, 2025, has faced challenges, with negotiations for its extension encountering obstacles. Israel has accused Hamas of misusing humanitarian aid and insists on the release of additional hostages as a prerequisite for progressing with the ceasefire.

Abigail Johnson Boakye