Israel Hamas latest: Why the ceasefire never happened
May 7, 2024
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Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, discusses the complexities of the failed ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. They explore why Israel rejected the deal and the core demands that were not met. The podcast delves into the challenges in negotiations and the impact on civilians amidst the conflict.
Israel rejected the ceasefire deal due to it not meeting core demands.
Negotiations for a comprehensive ceasefire face hurdles due to conflicting political priorities and external mediation.
Deep dives
Israeli Assault on Gaza After Ceasefire Agreement
After Hamas agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza, celebrations were short-lived as Israel launched an assault on Rafa. The conflicting actions of both parties raise doubts about the possibility of a true ceasefire. Despite international pressure, including from the United States, Israel continued its military actions, taking control of the Rafa crossing.
Challenges in Ceasefire Negotiations
Negotiations for a comprehensive ceasefire between Hamas and Israel face significant hurdles. The key decision-makers, Yaku Sinwar and Benjamin Netanyahu, prioritize their own political futures over reaching a quick agreement. Sinwar seeks to maintain Hamas's political relevance, while Netanyahu is embroiled in legal issues. The indirect negotiation process involving external mediators adds complexity and delays to the ceasefire efforts.
Humanitarian Crisis and US Influence
The deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, exacerbated by the closure of border crossings by Israel, poses grave concerns. The limits of US influence in the region are evident as Israeli actions defy calls to de-escalate. Despite pressure for American intervention to prevent further escalation in Rafa, the effectiveness of US efforts remains uncertain amidst complex political dynamics.
The Israeli Defense Force says it has taken 'operational control' of the Gaza side of the Rafah crossing, the main entry point for aid into the region. It comes less than 24 hours after Hamas said they would accept a ceasefire deal drawn up by Egyptian mediators.
On the Sky News Daily, Niall Paterson talks to our international affairs editor Dominic Waghorn to explore why Israel rejected the deal, saying it fell "far from meeting" its "core demands", and Aaron David Miller, senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former Middle East negotiator under Republican and Democratic US administrations.