Davos: Jordan's foreign minister issued a cautionary statement on Thursday about the potential collapse of the Gaza ceasefire, expressing concerns that it could lead to widespread instability across the Middle East. Ayman Safadi, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, emphasized the risks associated with the ceasefire failing, suggesting it could plunge not only Gaza but the entire region into significant turmoil.
According to Anadolu Agency, the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement commenced on January 19, effectively suspending Israel's military operations that have resulted in substantial casualties, with nearly 47,300 Palestinians killed and over 111,400 injured since October 7, 2023. The ceasefire agreement, structured in three phases, includes measures such as a prisoner exchange and aims to sustain calm, with the ultimate goal of establishing a permanent truce and ensuring the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Safadi highlighted the pressures faced by both sides to maintain the ceasefire, underscoring the dire consequences of its potential collapse. He pointed out the importance of seizing the opportunity for peace and questioned the alternatives if the agreement fails. Additionally, the Jordanian diplomat described the situation in the occupied West Bank as "extremely dangerous," noting the need to prevent the escalation of violence there.
The ongoing military offensive by the Israeli army in the Jenin refugee camp in the northern West Bank has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 12 people killed and 40 others injured over the past three days. Reports from Israeli media suggest that the operation is part of a political strategy by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to satisfy far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who opposed the recent Gaza ceasefire. Allegedly, Netanyahu promised the attack to prevent Smotrich's resignation, which could destabilize the government.
Safadi called for a political solution and a practical approach that ensures all parties feel their legitimate rights are fulfilled. His comments resonate with the July declaration by the International Court of Justice, which deemed Israel's occupation of Palestinian territories illegal and demanded the evacuation of settlements in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.