Breakthrough in Israel-Hamas Talks as Mediators Push for Ceasefire

US and Arab mediators have made significant headway in brokering a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. However, a final agreement has yet to be reached, according to officials on Monday. Talks aim to end over 15 months of conflict that has destabilized the Middle East, with hostages held in Gaza as a central issue.

Negotiators from the Gulf country of Qatar have intensified pressure on Hamas to accept the deal, while US envoy Steve Witkoff has been urging Israeli officials to agree. Both sides are reviewing a proposed agreement that could lead to a phased ceasefire and a partial exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

Breakthroughs and Remaining Hurdles

A person familiar with the negotiations stated there was a breakthrough overnight, with mediators presenting a draft agreement to both sides. Officials from Hamas and Israel are expected to seek approval from their respective leaders.
Despite progress, significant challenges remain. A Hamas official highlighted unresolved issues, including Israel’s commitment to end the war, withdrawal details, and the exchange terms for hostages and prisoners. The Egyptian mediator also confirmed these topics are still under discussion.

Timeline for Agreement

Officials believe the coming days are critical, with hopes of reaching an agreement before the US presidential inauguration on January 20. President Joe Biden, aiming to conclude a deal before leaving office, discussed the negotiations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday. High-level mediators, including Israel’s Mossad chief David Barnea and Biden’s adviser Brett McGurk, are working on the final details in Doha.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had previously indicated the talks were close to an agreement, emphasizing the need for swift resolution before the transition to the Trump administration.

Ceasefire Under Discussion

The current proposal involves a phased ceasefire. Initially, Hamas would release a portion of the hostages in exchange for a halt in fighting for several weeks. Netanyahu has shown support for this first phase but remains committed to continuing the campaign against Hamas until achieving total victory. Hamas, however, demands a complete end to the war and hopes the initial ceasefire will lead to a lasting resolution.

Families and Civilians Await Resolution

The war has taken a devastating toll, with over 46,000 Palestinians killed, primarily women and children, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Hamas’s attack in October 2023 resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of 250 individuals. Families of the 100 hostages still held in Gaza are pressuring Netanyahu to secure their release, holding rallies in Tel Aviv to demand action.

In Gaza, civilians remain skeptical about a truce. “We hear about negotiations every day, but we see nothing,” said Mazen Hammad, a resident of Khan Younis. The war has displaced 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, leaving many hoping for a breakthrough that brings lasting peace.