Israel has commenced its troop withdrawal from the Netzarim corridor, a significant area that connects northern Gaza to the southern regions, as part of an ongoing ceasefire agreement with Hamas. This development was confirmed by an Israeli official on Sunday, who requested anonymity due to restrictions on discussing military operations with the media.
With the ceasefire now in its second phase, Israel has begun facilitating the movement of Palestinians across the Netzarim corridor, allowing those in the conflict-ravaged northern regions to return to their homes. This troop withdrawal marks another step in fulfilling Israel’s commitments under the truce terms.
Uncertain progress in negotiations
While the exact number of troops withdrawn remains undisclosed, the ceasefire, which has lasted for 42 days, is currently at a critical juncture. Negotiations for an extension aimed at securing the release of more Israeli hostages held by Hamas are underway, although the agreement remains fragile and uncertain.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is dispatching a delegation to Qatar, a notable mediator in the negotiations between Israel and Hamas. However, the low-level nature of the officials involved has led to speculation that this mission may not yield significant advancements towards prolonging the truce. A meeting of key Cabinet ministers is anticipated this week to discuss the next phase of the agreement, although the timing of this meeting has not been confirmed.
Details of the ceasefire agreement
Throughout the initial phase of the ceasefire, Hamas has been gradually releasing 33 Israeli hostages who were taken during the attack on October 7, 2023. In exchange for these releases, the agreement allows for a halt in hostilities, the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and the provision of humanitarian aid to the beleaguered population of Gaza.
The ceasefire deal outlines that Israeli forces will withdraw from densely populated areas of Gaza. As stipulated, by day 22 of the ceasefire, which falls on Sunday, Palestinians are permitted to travel north from a central thoroughfare that passes through the Netzarim corridor without undergoing inspections by Israeli troops.
Looking ahead, the second phase of the agreement entails the release of all remaining hostages in exchange for a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, aiming for a “sustainable calm” in the region.