According to the reports on Wednesday (5 March), Hamas has rejected the US-brokered Witkoff proposal, which called for a 50-day ceasefire, continued humanitarian aid, and a two-stage hostage release plan. In response, Israel has threatened to resume military operations and has resealed border crossings to block aid. Hamas, however, insists on a single-stage hostage exchange in return for a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. This standoff has reignited tensions, putting the ceasefire agreement in jeopardy.
Israel’s primary objective remains the elimination of Hamas while securing the release of hostages. The blockade on Gaza has tightened, restricting essential supplies, and some US officials support using starvation as leverage. Reports suggest Hamas has enough food for months, but Israel may escalate by cutting water and electricity. Meanwhile, Hamas has been reinforcing its military capabilities in preparation for renewed conflict, collecting unexploded ordnance and recruiting new fighters.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with the Arab Summit in Cairo expected to introduce an Egyptian-led reconstruction plan for Gaza that opposes forced displacement. This plan could pressure Hamas to relinquish power and revive the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) as Gaza’s legitimate representative. If Washington remains committed to the ceasefire, it may help prevent further escalation. However, Israel’s continued military preparations suggest that renewed hostilities remain a strong possibility.
The United States has rejected a $53 billion Arab reconstruction proposal, favoring a plan that removes Hamas from power and transforms Gaza into a controlled economic zone. The humanitarian situation remains dire, as Israel’s blockade has disrupted aid efforts, leading to skyrocketing prices and worsening famine risks. With Gaza’s population entirely dependent on aid, the collapse of the ceasefire could trigger an even deeper humanitarian crisis.
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