The ceasefire in Gaza remains precarious as Israel insists on extending the initial phase of the agreement. Palestinians in Gaza had hoped to enter the Muslim holy month of Ramadan as part of the second phase of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government is now seeking to renegotiate the terms.
Israel is pressuring Hamas to prolong the first phase of the ceasefire in exchange for the release of half of the remaining 59 prisoners. This move has also led to the interruption of aid and supplies to Gaza. Hamas has accused Israel of abandoning the existing agreement and has called on the international community to intervene.
The question remains: Can the truce be salvaged?
Moderator: Rob Matheson
Guests:
- Xavier Abu Eid: Political analyst, former counselor of the PLO, and author of the book Rooted in Palestine.
- Francis Ricciardone: Former U.S. Ambassador to Egypt and Turkey, and former President of the American University in Cairo.
- Gershon Basin: Director at the Middle East NGO International Community and former peace and hostage negotiation expert.
