The United States, Egypt, and Qatar have joined forces in a renewed diplomatic effort to bring Israel and Hamas back to the negotiating table. In a joint statement released today, the three nations called on both parties to resume talks on a ceasefire and hostage-release deal.
The statement revealed that a “framework agreement” had been established, with only the final implementation details left to be ironed out. Israel has agreed to send negotiators to the proposed talks, scheduled for 15 August in either Doha or Cairo, while Hamas has yet to respond.
This diplomatic push comes in the wake of escalating tensions in the region following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh last week. Iran has vowed a response to the killing, which it blames on Israel, though Israel has not directly commented on the incident.
The joint statement, signed by US President Joe Biden, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, emphasized the need to close all remaining gaps and begin implementing the deal without delay. The agreement is based on principles outlined by President Biden in May and endorsed by the UN Security Council.
Despite previous rounds of talks, reaching a ceasefire and hostage-release agreement has proven challenging. Hamas is advocating for a ceasefire, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists that the conflict can only end once Hamas is defeated.
Recent violence has continued, with Israel conducting airstrikes on the Gaza strip on Thursday. Hamas reported casualties, including more than 18 people killed in strikes on two schools, while the Israeli military claimed to have targeted Hamas command centers.
The situation is further complicated by Hamas’ recent election of Yahya Sinwar as its new leader, replacing Haniyeh. Sinwar, known for his involvement in past attacks, is considered one of the group’s most extreme figures.
Amidst concerns of potential retaliation from Iran or its allies, Israel’s security cabinet reportedly held a meeting in an underground bunker on Thursday. The upcoming talks on 15 August will be crucial in determining the path forward for Israel and Hamas in resolving their longstanding conflict.
