Leaders from Israel and Hamas have been invited to fresh ceasefire talks in Doha, Qatar following over 10 months of deadly conflict in the Gaza Strip that has claimed more than 40,000 Palestinian lives. The negotiations are aimed at avoiding further escalation in hostilities between Iran and Israel after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran. Mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the US are expected to attend the talks, with Israel sending a delegation led by intelligence and defense officials. However, reports suggest that Hamas may not be sending representatives.
The talks, scheduled for Thursday, will focus on concluding a ceasefire and securing the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza. The framework agreement to be discussed is based on President Biden’s proposal and the UN Security Council Resolution 2735, which outlines a three-phase plan for truce in the region. Israel is seeking checkpoints at Gaza’s southern border and security screenings for Palestinians returning to their homes, while Hamas is emphasizing a truce based on previous proposals and a full Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza.
Recent events, including the assassination of Haniyeh and a Hezbollah commander, have heightened tensions, prompting the need for urgent negotiations. The US, Egypt, and Qatar have been mediating ceasefire talks since November, with this round aiming to bring an end to the devastating conflict that has ravaged Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated the country’s commitment to a “complete victory” over Hamas, while the Palestinian group is seeking a truce based on existing proposals. Ultimately, the talks provide a glimmer of hope for peace in a region plagued by violence and suffering.
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