Israel to start negotiations for second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal

Israel will start negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal, focusing on exchanging Israeli hostages for Palestinian detainees. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar emphasized the need for complete demilitarization of Gaza. These negotiations were expected to begin before the first phase ends on March 2, but Qatar reported that talks have not officially started. Sa’ar stated that Israel opposes any "Hezbollah model" in Gaza. Israel is aware of an alternative plan from Arab states regarding Gaza, which aims to counter a U.S. proposal for redevelopment. However, Israel will not support transferring control from Hamas to the Palestinian Authority.