Hamas Seeks Concrete Deal Over Further Discussions

Hamas has resisted advancing discussions on any fresh cease-fire proposals this Thursday. They have called on the United States, Egypt, and Qatar to focus on enforcing agreements previously reached last month, based on a framework suggested by U.S. President Joe Biden. This framework calls for an end to additional negotiation rounds or new proposals, which Hamas views as justifications for ongoing hostilities.

Meanwhile, the leaders of France, Germany, and Britain have supported the combined efforts of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt to establish a cease-fire in Gaza. This initiative also seeks the release of numerous hostages held by Hamas and advocates for unrestricted humanitarian aid delivery.

These mediation efforts aim to execute a structured three-phase plan. Under this plan, Hamas would release the remaining hostages taken during its attack on October 7 in exchange for Palestinians detained by Israel, followed by an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.