DaysofPal- Hazem Qassem, a spokesman for Hamas, has called on Israel to withdraw its troops from the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border, by the obligations laid out in the first phase of the ceasefire agreement.
In a statement to AFP, Qassem responded to reports indicating that new proposals were being presented that could bypass the original Gaza ceasefire agreement.
“Reports indicate new proposals are being presented aimed at circumventing the Gaza agreement,” Qassem said.
He emphasized that while discussions are ongoing with mediators in Doha, Hamas remains committed to the terms of the ceasefire.
“Meetings are continuing with mediators in Doha. We adhere to what was agreed upon and to entering into the second phase,” he added.
However, Qassem stressed that for the second phase of the ceasefire deal to proceed, Israel must fulfill its obligations, including withdrawing from the entire Gaza Strip and specifically beginning the withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor.
“Israel has not implemented the humanitarian protocol of the Gaza agreement,” he added. “We do not want to return to war again, and if the occupation resumes its aggression, we have no choice but to defend our people.”
Since March 2nd, Israel has been blocking aid convoys from entering the Gaza Strip, aiming to exert pressure on Hamas.
The first phase of the ceasefire agreement ended on March 1st without a clear resolution on the next steps to permanently end the war. While Hamas is eager to start negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, Israel is pushing for an extension of the first phase.
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