Hamas Demands Greater International Pressure on Israel Before Moving Forward in Gaza Ceasefire

Hamas has asked for stronger global pressure on Israel before moving into the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire. The group wants Israel to open key border crossings, stop deadly strikes, and allow more aid into Gaza. The demand came after Israel said it was ready to continue the terms of the ceasefire deal led by the United States.

The appeal was made on Tuesday, marking a tense moment in efforts to stabilize Gaza after two years of conflict. According to Reuters, Israel’s government believes it has met its part of the agreement, while Hamas claims that basic conditions have not yet been fulfilled.

Hamas Seeks Implementation of First Phase Before Next Gaza Ceasefire Steps

Hamas leader Husam Badran said the group will not move forward until all terms of the first phase are completed. He pointed to continued Israeli strikes and home demolitions across Gaza. Palestinian health officials say more than 370 people have been killed since the ceasefire began in October.

Israel says its recent strikes were self-defense, targeted at militants who posed threats near controlled zones. But reports show civilians, including women and children, are among the dead. The fragile truce remains under strain from both political and military actions.

Regional players such as Qatar and Turkey could pressure Hamas to keep the deal alive. Yet the group’s demands highlight the lack of progress on the ground. Aid trucks entering Gaza are far below promised levels, creating growing frustration among residents and aid workers.

Humanitarian Aid to Gaza Still Below Promised Levels

The United Nations says aid entering Gaza is still limited. Under the ceasefire terms, at least 600 trucks were expected each day. But data from the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs shows about 120 trucks entering daily on average.

Israel’s COGAT office says the numbers are higher, between 600 and 800 daily. Yet many goods in Gaza remain out of reach due to high prices and shortages. Hospitals are still short of medicine and essential equipment.

Israel announced plans to allow some aid shipments through its Jordan border to ease shortages. The Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza also remains a key issue, with Israel saying it is ready to open it only for Palestinians leaving, not entering the strip.

Uncertain Path Ahead for Gaza’s Future and Ceasefire Plan

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the next phase will start once Hamas returns the remains of the last hostage held in Gaza. Hamas argues that recent strikes have made that search nearly impossible.

Over 70,000 Palestinians have died since the conflict began in October 2023, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry’s records are generally considered credible by international observers.

As talks continue, an international body may be tasked with managing Gaza’s reconstruction later this year. The ceasefire deal remains one of the most sensitive efforts in the region, with both sides under pressure from allies and opponents alike.

The Gaza ceasefire stands at a fragile point. Hamas insists that Israel meet its commitments before progress resumes. The world watches as peace and humanitarian relief hang in the balance.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What does Hamas demand before moving to the next Gaza ceasefire phase?

Hamas wants Israel to open border crossings, stop strikes, and allow more humanitarian aid into Gaza before continuing the ceasefire process.

Q2: How many people have been killed since the ceasefire began?

According to Palestinian officials, more than 370 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire took effect in October.

Q3: How much aid is entering Gaza now?

The U.N. reports about 120 aid trucks enter Gaza daily, far below the 600 per day agreed under the ceasefire terms.

Q4: What is Israel’s response to Hamas’s demands?

Israel says it has met its obligations and accuses Hamas of stalling. It claims recent operations targeted militants posing threats.

Q5: What is the next expected step in the ceasefire plan?

Talks will continue toward disarming Hamas and establishing international oversight for Gaza’s reconstruction later this year.