Israel and Hamas start crucial ceasefire talks in Qatar
Talks between Israel and Hamas regarding a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip have begun in Qatar. Both sides have confirmed their participation in the negotiations.
A new round of negotiations concerning a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip between Hamas and Israel was initiated in Qatar on Saturday. This information was confirmed by a Hamas representative, Taher al-Nono, in an interview with Reuters. The Israeli side also confirmed participation in the talks.
New negotiations between Israel and Hamas: What about the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip?
A Hamas representative emphasized that the talks are taking place without preconditions. The Hamas delegation presented its position, highlighting the necessity to end the war, exchange prisoners, withdraw Israel from the Gaza Strip, and allow humanitarian aid access.
Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, confirmed the resumption of negotiations in Qatar, which concern the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Before the start of talks, Israel did not agree to a ceasefire or lifting the blockade of the Gaza Strip.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Israel is preparing to expand operations in the Gaza Strip, aiming to achieve operational control in certain areas of the enclave. In the span of 72 hours of the new offensive, hundreds of people have been killed and injured, and many may still be trapped under the rubble of buildings.
International context
The negotiations resumed after U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to the Middle East. The Israeli government emphasizes that its goal is the release of hostages and the dismantling of Hamas. Meanwhile, Hamas, recognized as a terrorist organization, declares its readiness for a ceasefire and the release of the hostages, but only if the war ends. Israel rejects this proposal because it does not guarantee the disarmament of Hamas or its removal from power in the Gaza Strip.
The war in the Gaza Strip has been ongoing since October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing about 1,200 people and kidnapping 251. The Israeli army reports that 23 hostages remain in captivity, and the bodies of 35 kidnapped individuals are being held. According to local authorities controlled by Hamas, more than 53,100 Palestinians have died in the war.
