Israeli Forces Withdraw from Gaza Corridor amid Ceasefire Negotiations
Israeli forces began withdrawing from a key Gaza corridor on Sunday, as part of Israel's commitments under a ceasefire deal with Hamas. This withdrawal is seen as essential for progressing in negotiations for an extension of the temporary truce.
Israel agreed to remove its forces from the 4-mile (6-kilometer) Netzarim corridor, which had been designated as a military zone. Since the ceasefire commenced, Palestinians were permitted to cross the corridor, allowing many to return to their homes in the war-ravaged northern Gaza.
However, both sides have yet to reach consensus on the truce’s second phase, which is crucial for extending the ceasefire and securing the release of more Israeli hostages held by Hamas. A delegation led by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is being sent to Qatar for mediatory talks, but there are concerns regarding the low level of officials in this mission.
In a separate incident, the Palestinian Health Ministry reported that a 23-year-old pregnant woman was killed by Israeli gunfire in the northern West Bank. This highlights the fragility of the ceasefire, initially brokered on January 19, and the ongoing violence in the region.
Cars laden with belongings were seen travelling north through Netzarim, indicating further movement as Israeli military personnel withdrew from the area. The Israeli government did not announce how many troops were being pulled back, but full withdrawal negotiations will be addressed in the next stage of the truce.
The ceasefire has witnessed initial phases where Hamas is gradually releasing Israeli hostages in exchange for a pause in fighting, while Israel prepares to reduce military presence in populated areas of Gaza. Challenges remain, especially concerning the complete withdrawal from Gaza and the release of all hostages.
Political dynamics complicate the negotiation, with Netanyahu facing pressures that could result in a resumption of conflict if hostages are not returned swiftly. Tensions are further heightened by U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal related to Gaza and ongoing violence in the occupied West Bank.
Violence has escalated in recent days as Israeli operations continue in the West Bank, raising alarms over civilian casualties amidst the complex geopolitical environment in the region.
