Israel and Hamas Ceasefire Talks Amid US Pressure
The US-backed proposal has sparked cautious optimism, but deep-seated mistrust between Israel and Hamas remains a significant obstacle to a lasting ceasefire. With the humanitarian situation in Gaza reaching critical levels, the need for a resolution is becoming increasingly urgent. The talks in Qatar will continue, with the international community holding its breath in anticipation of a breakthrough.
US President Donald Trump has proposed a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, with Israel agreeing to the conditions, while Hamas has responded positively with amendments, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called the demands "unacceptable" but sent negotiators to Doha for talks.
The proposed ceasefire includes three main demands from Hamas: an end to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, Israeli military withdrawals, and international guarantees for an end to the war. The original US-backed proposal also includes the release of Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinians in Israeli prisons, aid distribution, and phased pull-outs of Israeli troops from parts of Gaza. However, Netanyahu has reportedly agreed to the original proposal but has called Hamas's amendments "unacceptable" and has stated he will not end the war until all captives are released and Hamas is "destroyed".
Analysts believe Netanyahu wants to continue the war to gain political leverage and dismiss corruption charges. The chances of a deal being reached are slim, with one expert stating that Israel and Netanyahu are not interested in reaching a ceasefire. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is deteriorating, with acute malnutrition among children and a lack of fuel and medical supplies. The situation is critical, with both sides showing cautious optimism but also deep-seated mistrust.
US President Donald Trump is hosting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, with hopes of a new Gaza ceasefire deal after 21 months of war. Trump has been "very firm" with Netanyahu about ending the conflict, and Netanyahu has expressed optimism about the meeting. Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas on a US-sponsored proposal for a 60-day ceasefire and hostage release deal have resumed in Qatar, but key differences remain.
The outcome of the talks remains uncertain, with the Israeli delegation lacking sufficient mandate to reach an agreement with Hamas. The talks are part of a broader effort to broker a ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, which has been ongoing for several weeks. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, the international community is watching closely, hoping for a breakthrough in the negotiations.