"Israel" sets four conditions for second phase of Gaza ceasefire

"Israeli" energy minister, Eli Cohen, announced that "Israel" has set four new conditions for moving to the second phase of its ceasefire agreement with Hamas, raising concerns about the collapse of ongoing diplomatic efforts.

These conditions, Cohen revealed, include the release of all prisoners held by Hamas, the expulsion of Hamas from Gaza, disarming the region, and imposing full "Israeli" security control over Gaza.

In an interview with "Israeli" public radio, Cohen, a member of the security cabinet, emphasized that "Israel" would not release Palestinian detainees unless Hamas ceases its captive handover ceremonies.

He also stressed the need to return the bodies of four additional deceased individuals and to release captives Gai Dallal and Avitar David, who were forced to witness the release of their fellow captives last Saturday.

"Israel's" authorities had announced on Saturday evening that the release of the seventh round of Palestinian detainees in the first phase of the prisoner exchange deal would be delayed, accusing Hamas of holding "humiliating ceremonies" during the captive handover.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated after a security meeting that the delay was meant to pressure Hamas to expedite the release of captives. However, "Israeli" Channel 12 revealed a sharp division within "Israel's" security agencies over this decision.

While senior security officials urged the release of Palestinian detainees, warning that further delays could jeopardize the entire agreement, Netanyahu proceeded with consultations solely with his ministers, dismissing the security agencies' recommendations.

The release of 620 Palestinian detainees was originally planned to take place following the transfer of six captives by Hamas' military wing, the Qassam Brigades, last Saturday.

The first phase of the agreement involves the release of 33 captives, including eight bodies, in exchange for 1,900 Palestinian detainees from "Israeli" jails. However, Netanyahu's obstinacy raises serious risks to the continuation of the ceasefire.