Israeli attacks persist as talks on ceasefire and captive exchange face obstacles
An Israeli delegation headed to Qatar following a new Hamas proposal that rekindled hopes for a truce agreement, amidst ongoing clashes across Gaza.
The negotiators, led by spy chief David Barnea, met mediators in Doha, with talks set to continue next week. However, "gaps between the parties" still exist in their stances.
Hamas recently introduced fresh "ideas" to mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, aiming to broker a ceasefire and captive exchange to end the long-standing conflict.
Israel, in its Gaza offensive, has seen staggering casualties, with at least 38,011 Palestinians reportedly killed.
Hamas's latest proposals, while showing a significant shift, are met with cautious optimism by a US official, who described the development as a "breakthrough" but highlighted remaining challenges.
The group's offers found a positive reception from mediators, although the official Israeli position remains unclear.
The pressure mounts on both sides to strike a deal as discussions on a UN-backed plan, outlined by US President Joe Biden, have hit a snag.
Key to the talks is Hamas's demand for assurances that Israel won't resume hostilities post the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas. On the contrary, Netanyahu insists that the conflict will only cease once Hamas is "eradicated."
Fighting grips Gaza as Israeli forces intensify operations in Khan Younis, Rafah, and Gaza City. The violence escalates despite diplomatic efforts, with reports of casualties and destruction surfacing.
Hezbollah's clashes with the Israeli military along the Lebanon-Israel border add to regional tensions, underscoring fears of a broader conflict.
The humanitarian crisis deepens in Gaza, with mass displacements, dire living conditions, and widespread hunger affecting the besieged population.
The EU voices concerns over the Israeli army's eviction orders for over 250,000 Palestinians in Khan Younis, warning of exacerbating the already severe humanitarian situation.
Amid the escalating crisis, calls persist for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate humanitarian aid and hostage release in Gaza.
Source: ALJAZEERA
ALJAZEERA MEDIA NETWORK