Hamas Accepts Proposal as Israel Reviews Terms; Agreement Hailed as Crucial for Peace
DOHA – Negotiations between Hamas and Israel have reached a critical juncture, with mediators in Qatar announcing that a ceasefire agreement is nearing finalisation. Talks resumed in Doha on Tuesday, as representatives from both sides work to resolve remaining details of the proposed truce.
A draft agreement has been circulated, outlining terms that include the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of hostages. Qatari officials have described the current situation as the closest the two parties have been to a resolution since the conflict’s escalation.
Progress on Both Sides
Hamas officials confirmed their acceptance of the draft deal, while Israeli representatives indicated that they are still deliberating. “We are close, but not there yet,” said an Israeli source involved in the discussions.
The conflict, which has resulted in over 46,500 Palestinian casualties since October, has drawn international calls for resolution. In his final foreign policy address, US President Joe Biden underscored the urgency of the agreement, emphasising its potential to bring peace, facilitate humanitarian aid, and secure the release of hostages.
Biden and Trump on the Ceasefire
President Biden highlighted the deal’s significance, stating:
“Too many innocent lives have been lost, and it’s time for both sides to move towards peace. This agreement could halt the violence and open the door for extensive aid to Palestinians.”
President-elect Donald Trump also expressed optimism during a recent interview, claiming, “We’re very close to sealing the deal, and it must happen soon.”
Shift in Negotiations
An Israeli official noted that the death of Yahya Sinwar, a key Hamas leader, marked a turning point in the group’s willingness to negotiate. Sinwar, who was reportedly the architect of the October 7 attacks, had been seen as a major obstacle to earlier agreements.
The proposed ceasefire is expected to include increased humanitarian aid and mechanisms to monitor compliance, signalling a potential breakthrough in one of the region’s most enduring conflicts.