The Israeli government is set to withdraw troops from Gaza as a delegation prepares to travel to Qatar for discussions aimed at establishing a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. This development comes amid efforts to mediate peace talks between Israel and Hamas, with Qatar playing a crucial role in facilitating the dialogue.
The Israeli delegation’s initial focus during these discussions will be on "technical matters" related to the first phase of the ceasefire agreement. This phase is expected to address immediate concerns, while the more contentious second phase, which aims for a permanent ceasefire, the exchange of all remaining hostages, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, will require further guidance from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu is currently returning from the United States, where he recently met with President Donald Trump.
During his visit, Netanyahu became the first foreign leader to meet Trump since the latter’s return to the White House on January 20. The meeting marked a significant shift in U.S. policy toward Gaza, with Trump proposing the controversial idea of relocating the entire civilian population of Gaza to create what he referred to as "The Riviera of the Middle East." This suggestion has faced widespread condemnation, including from Arab nations, and has been deemed a violation of international law.
The Saudi foreign ministry expressed strong opposition to any actions that infringe on the rights of Palestinians, labeling such proposals as attempts at "ethnic cleansing." Similarly, Egypt has rejected any notion of displacing the Palestinian population and is convening an emergency summit of the Arab League on February 27 to address what it describes as serious developments concerning the Palestinian situation.
In response to Trump’s proposal, Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasized the need for innovative solutions from both the U.S. and regional neighbors, including Egypt and Jordan, which Trump has suggested could host Gaza’s displaced Palestinians. Herzog stated that it is crucial to prevent a recurrence of the violence seen on October 7, implying that Hamas should not retain control over Gaza in the future.
As these discussions unfold, the international community will be closely watching the outcome of the negotiations, particularly regarding the humanitarian implications for the Palestinian population and the broader stability of the region.