A senior Qatari official has urged Israel and Hamas to show more commitment and seriousness in cease-fire negotiations to free some Israeli hostages and bring an end to the nearly seven-month-long war in Gaza. Qatar, a key intermediary, has been reassessing its mediator role due to frustrations with the lack of progress. An Israeli delegation is expected in Egypt soon to discuss proposals, while a senior Hamas official confirmed that a delegation from the militant group will also head to Cairo for talks.
Relations between Qatar and Israel have been strained throughout the war as some Israeli politicians have criticized Qatar for not putting enough pressure on Hamas. An Egyptian official confirmed that discussions with Israeli officials regarding a new vision for a prolonged cease-fire in Gaza have taken place. Israel has shown some willingness but not complete commitment to establishing a permanent cease-fire in the region until Hamas is defeated. Negotiations have centered on a six-week cease-fire proposal and the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for the freeing of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
Pressure from the international community has been mounting for Hamas and Israel to reach a cease-fire deal to prevent an Israeli attack on Rafah, the city where more than half of Gaza’s population is seeking shelter. Israel has massed tanks and armored vehicles on the border with Egypt, raising global alarm. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas has warned that a small strike could force everyone to leave Palestine, while Israeli sees Rafah as Hamas’ last stronghold and vows to destroy its military capabilities. The looming threat of an invasion has raised concerns about worsening the already desperate humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The war was sparked by Hamas’ attack into southern Israel, leading to casualties on both sides with Hamas holding hostages and Israeli authorities retaliating with military action that resulted in over 34,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly women and children. The Israeli military blames Hamas for civilian casualties, accusing the group of embedding in residential and public areas. Efforts are being made to negotiate a cease-fire deal and the release of hostages to prevent further escalation and loss of life. Israel promises to invade the city of Rafah despite global concern, and aid groups warn of worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
