In response to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, US President Joe Biden expressed his hope for a ceasefire to commence by the beginning of next week. Representatives from Egypt, Qatar, the United States, France, and other nations have been working as mediators between Israel and Hamas. They aim to stop the fighting and negotiate the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Additionally, discussions may include the exchange of hostages for Palestinian detainees held by Israel.
During a visit to New York, President Biden stated that his national security advisor indicated they were nearing an agreement but emphasized that it’s not finalized yet. He expressed his optimism, saying, “My hope is by next Monday we’ll have a ceasefire.”
Over the weekend, representatives from various parties, excluding Hamas, gathered in Paris. According to White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, they reached an understanding on the basic outlines of a potential ceasefire deal. Subsequently, Egyptian, Qatari, and US experts convened in Doha for further talks, joined by Israeli and Hamas representatives. Their aim is to secure a truce before the start of Ramadan.
However, challenges remain as contentious issues are addressed. A Hamas source mentioned that new amendments were proposed, but Israel has not presented substantive positions on the ceasefire terms and the withdrawal from Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the demand for troop withdrawal, expressing concerns that a ceasefire would only postpone a military incursion into Gaza.
Despite the hurdles, there are positive signals from the negotiations. An unnamed Israeli official mentioned that the talks’ direction is positive, and military and intelligence officials were scheduled to travel to Qatar for further discussions. Additionally, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, who played a role in brokering previous truces, is expected in Paris to continue the dialogue.
Sheikh Tamim has been engaged in discussions with Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Doha, aiming to reach an immediate and permanent ceasefire agreement. Meanwhile, Israel’s military campaign in Gaza has led to a significant loss of life, with thousands killed, mostly women and children, according to the ministry. The conflict erupted following an unprecedented attack by Hamas, resulting in casualties in Israel as well as the seizure of hostages, some of whom remain in Gaza.
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