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Fragile Gaza Ceasefire: Slovenia Warns of Renewed Conflict Amid Peace Efforts

Slovenia's foreign minister has expressed serious concerns about the fragile Gaza ceasefire holding. She emphasized that humanitarian aid remains insufficient while key governance issues need resolution. Meanwhile, Israel has threatened to resume military operations if Hamas doesn't comply with disarmament demands. The situation highlights the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and potential renewed conflict in the region.

Key Points: Slovenia Warns Gaza Ceasefire Fragile as Israel Threatens Return

  • Slovenian FM voices concern over fragile situation and insufficient humanitarian aid in Gaza
  • Key governance and reconstruction issues remain unresolved in peace process
  • Israel threatens renewed fighting if Hamas fails to disarm and return hostages
  • International efforts focus on two-state solution with UN and EU support
  • Both sides preparing contingency plans should ceasefire negotiations collapse
2 min read

Slovenia warns of fragile Gaza ceasefire, calls for sustained peace efforts

Slovenian FM warns Gaza ceasefire remains fragile amid insufficient aid and governance challenges, while Israel threatens renewed fighting if Hamas doesn't comply.

"If Hamas refuses to comply with the agreement, Israel, in coordination with the United States, will return to fighting - Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz"

Ljubljana, Oct 16

Slovenian Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon said that the current ceasefire in Gaza remains fragile and warned of complex challenges ahead in implementing the next phase of the peace plan.

Speaking before the parliamentary Foreign Policy Committee, Fajon voiced concern over the "fragile situation on the ground," noting that humanitarian aid entering the war-torn Gaza Strip remains insufficient.

She said a number of key issues still need to be resolved, including questions of governance and reconstruction in Gaza, reports Xinhua news agency.

"Slovenia remains active and committed to finding a political solution that would establish a permanent ceasefire in the Middle East and peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians," Fajon said.

She emphasised that efforts should include the establishment of a Palestinian state in line with the two-state solution, highlighting the importance of the United Nations in building a stable political framework for Palestinian governance, as well as the European Union's (EU) role in supporting the process.

Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned on Wednesday that if Hamas does not demilitarise and return all bodies of hostages it holds, Israel will return to fighting.

The threat came on the sixth day of a fragile ceasefire, as Hamas handed over the remains of two more hostages and said they were the last bodies in its custody.

In a statement, Katz said: "If Hamas refuses to comply with the agreement, Israel, in coordination with the United States, will return to fighting and act to achieve the absolute defeat of Hamas, alter the situation in Gaza and attain all the objectives of the war."

In a meeting earlier on Wednesday with the chief of staff and senior military officers, Katz instructed the military to prepare "a comprehensive plan to defeat Hamas" should Israel decide to resume its campaign in Gaza. He said the plan was to be drafted should Hamas "refuse to implement (U.S. President Donald) Trump's plan and fighting needs to be renewed."

Katz added that, under Trump's plan, Hamas is required to return all bodies of deceased hostages in its custody and disarm. He said Israel, together with an international force led by the United States, "would move to destroy all tunnels and terror infrastructure in Gaza to ensure the strip is demilitarised and poses no threat to the State of Israel."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The two-state solution has been discussed for decades but never implemented properly. While I appreciate Slovenia's efforts, I'm skeptical about any real progress. Both sides need to show more flexibility for lasting peace.
A
Arjun K
India has always supported peaceful resolution of conflicts. This fragile ceasefire needs stronger international backing. The UN and EU should take more proactive role rather than just making statements.
S
Sarah B
The hostage situation is heartbreaking. No family should have to wonder about their loved ones. While demilitarization is important, the immediate focus should be on humanitarian concerns and returning all hostages safely.
V
Vikram M
Reconstruction and governance issues are the real challenges. Even if ceasefire holds, without proper planning for Gaza's future, we'll see the same cycle repeat. The international community needs concrete plans, not just warnings.
M
Michael C
While I understand Israel's security concerns, returning to fighting will only cause more civilian casualties. There has to be a better way forward that ensures security while protecting innocent lives. The threats from both sides aren't helping.

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