The recent round of talks between Israeli and Hamas negotiators in Qatar showed signs of progress, with mediators describing the discussions as ‘constructive’ and conducted in a ‘positive manner’. Despite growing momentum towards a final deal to end the long-standing conflict, Hamas rejected ‘new conditions’ in a Gaza ceasefire plan presented by the United States.
US President Joe Biden expressed optimism, stating, “We are closer than we have ever been” to reaching a ceasefire agreement. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to travel to Israel to advance the proposal further. Egypt, Qatar, and the US have been working tirelessly to finalize a framework for peace, with Washington pushing for a swift resolution since the killing of a Hamas leader in Iran.
The talks, however, have faced challenges in pinning down the specifics of a truce and hostage release deal. Despite the efforts of mediators, Hamas opposes what they deem as ‘new conditions’ from Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for pressure on Hamas to accept the proposed principles, while Western allies urged for a swift resolution to the conflict.