https://morningstaronline.co.uk/article/netanyahu-ceasefire-phase-2-largely-symbolic

ISRAEL’S far-right Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that the United States’ announcement of the so-called ceasefire in Gaza advancing to its second phase is largely symbolic.

Israeli forces have killed more than 400 Palestinians since the ceasefire came into force on October 10, raising questions about whether phase two of the plan will bring any more respite for Gazans.

Speaking on Wednesday night with the parents of the last Israeli hostage whose remains are still in the coastal enclave, Mr Netanyahu said that the announcement of a governing committee of Palestinians as part of the second phase was merely a “declarative move,” rather than, as described by US envoy Steve Witkoff, a sign of progress.

Israeli police officer Ran Gvili’s parents had earlier pressed Mr Netanyahu not to advance the ceasefire until their son’s remains were returned, Israel’s Hostage and Missing Families Forum said earlier that day.

Mr Netanyahu told Mr Gvili’s parents that his return remained a top priority.

The announcement of the ceasefire’s second phase marked a significant step forward but left many questions unanswered.

They include the membership of a proposed apolitical governing committee of Palestinian experts and an international “board of peace.”

The committee’s composition has been co-ordinated with Israel, said an Israeli official speaking on the condition of anonymity.

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