(NewsNation) — As the ceasefire in Gaza continues to face major tests, Vice President JD Vance is set to visit Israel in an effort to push the implementation of the second phase between the nation and Hamas, an Israeli official confirmed to NewsNation.
The first phase of the ceasefire saw 20 Israeli hostages released, nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners freed, and Israeli troops withdrawing from some areas of Gaza. However, the Trump administration wants to move into Phase 2, which involves establishing a new government in Gaza, creating a multinational force and disarming Hamas.
Major issues remain to be addressed, including Hamas’ failure to hand over all of the deceased Israeli hostages. The ceasefire agreement requires Hamas to return all 28 bodies.
Hamas did release the remains of two more hostages over the weekend, but Israel remains frustrated with the pace at which Hamas is operating. Hamas officials attributed the slowed process to the destruction of Gaza and Israeli military control of certain areas.
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The difficulty increased on Sunday as Israeli officials said its troops came under fire from Hamas militants in southern Gaza. Health officials said at least 29 Palestinians were killed by the strikes there and in central Gaza. Israel’s military said it had struck dozens of what it called Hamas targets.
Following the airstrikes, Israel is halting the transfer of humanitarian aid to Gaza until further notice.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed the military to take “strong action” against any ceasefire violations but didn’t threaten to return to war. Both sides have accused one another of violating the ceasefire.
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Israeli military officials did acknowledge plans to renew its enforcement of the ceasefire before the attacks.
Vance’s visit was planned before the fighting and airstrikes resumed.
