President Joe Biden appeared hopeful that a ceasefire in Gaza could be forthcoming. Saying that the agreement is “closer than we’ve ever been.” After recent talks, Biden said he would be sending Secretary of State Antony Blinken to Israel to continue intensive efforts toward finalizing the deal.
Concerns Over Regional Tensions Biden
The killing of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran has raised fears of possible reprisals by Iran on Israel. According to Biden, all parties should avoid anything that can sabotage the peace process and concentrate on the ceasefire negotiations.
Skepticism from Hamas and Israel Biden
While Hamas has cast doubt over chances of reaching a truce pact. Israel has not mentioned it but acknowledged the US’. And other mediators’ endeavors aimed at stopping Hamas from refusing hostage release arrangements. A joint statement by the US, Qatar. And Egypt showed that there was a proposal that had been put forward that “narrows the gaps” between both sides.
Hostage Release a Key Condition
Israel has stated unambiguously that any ceasefire agreement must involve rescuing remaining hostages who were taken during an attack by insurgents on October 7th. Although some of these 251 persons have been released, others are feared dead in Gaza. The families of those held hostage described these talks as their “last chance” for freedom.
Mediation Efforts and Future Talks
The recent discussions in Qatar were described as “serious, constructive, and conducted in a positive atmosphere” by mediators. Over the next few days, technical teams will carry on fine-tuning with an expectation that Cairo senior officers will wrap up discussions.
Challenges Ahead
Although progress has been made thus far towards achieving a cease-fire; it is yet to happen. This is not even President Biden’s first optimistic comment regarding this matter; skepticism remains among diplomatic circles. According to an influential member of Hamas who did not take part directly but was involved in later exchanges with Egyptian and Qatari authorities, the last negotiations did not fully honor previous agreements signed in July.
Ongoing Conflict and Casualties
Over forty thousand Palestinians have died during the ensuing battle that began on October 7 when militants undertook an unprecedented attack on Israel. As per the statistics provided by Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza more than 40,000 people have died. In November last year, Hamas released 105 hostages who were taken for a week-long period of truce during which 240 Palestinians were freed from Israeli prisons. However, there are still 111 captives while thirty-nine of them are presumed dead.
