WASHINGTON – Steve Witkoff, U.S. Middle East envoy, confirmed on February 23 that the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal is expected to proceed, despite rising tensions over Israel’s delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners. Witkoff announced plans to visit the Middle East this week to negotiate an extension of the ceasefire, which has been in effect since January 20.
In an interview on CNN’s State of the Union, Witkoff emphasized the importance of maintaining the truce, stating, “We have to get an extension of phase one… I’ll be going to the region this week, probably Wednesday, to negotiate that.” His remarks come as Israel postponed the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners until the release of Israeli hostages is guaranteed, citing concerns over “humiliating ceremonies” during previous exchanges.
The Palestinian group Hamas accused Israel of endangering the five-week-old truce by delaying prisoner releases. The first phase of the three-phase ceasefire ends in early March, with details of the next phase yet to be finalized. The agreement was brokered to halt over 15 months of war, which began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 250 hostages, according to Israeli reports.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended the delay, emphasizing the need to protect Israel’s security interests and prevent Hamas from gaining political power in Gaza. Witkoff echoed this sentiment, stating, “Hamas can’t be any part of governance in Gaza… I’ll leave the rest to the Prime Minister.”
The United Nations and human rights organizations have expressed concern over inhumane conditions faced by both Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees, calling the situation distressing. Tensions escalated further as Israel expanded military operations in the West Bank on February 23.
The ongoing ceasefire negotiations are critical in preventing a resumption of hostilities. The conflict has led to over 48,000 Palestinian casualties since October 2023, with Israel denying accusations of war crimes and genocide. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has faced international condemnation for proposing to take over Gaza and displace Palestinians, a plan labeled as ethnic cleansing by the United Nations.
As the U.S. envoy heads to the Middle East, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain, with international stakeholders closely monitoring the delicate peace process.