Hamas has agreed to start talks with the US regarding the release of Israeli hostages, including soldiers and men, following a proposal 16 days after the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The group has dropped the demand for a permanent ceasefire before negotiations, signaling progress towards ending the conflict. If accepted by Israel, this proposal could lead to a framework agreement and end the nine-month-old war.
Israeli sources also acknowledge the possibility of reaching an agreement, a significant shift from past standoffs. Despite remaining gaps between the two sides, the new proposal ensures temporary ceasefire, aid delivery, and Israeli troop withdrawal under mediator guarantees during the negotiations.
In the midst of intensified efforts to secure peace and hostage release, Israeli forces continue military strikes in Gaza, resulting in casualties and casualties among journalists. The conflict has lingered with both sides engaging in violence, as negotiations and mediators work towards a solution before the US presidential elections in November.