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War: US, Egypt, Qatar Urge Israel and Hamas to Resume Negotiations

Published

5 months ago

Aug 9, 2024.

US, Egypt, Qatar Urge Israel and Hamas to Resume Negotiations

In a joint effort to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East, the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have issued a statement urging Israel and Hamas to resume negotiations for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.

The statement highlighted that the three nations have reached a “framework agreement” with only the final implementation details remaining.

Israel has agreed to send representatives to participate in the proposed talks, scheduled for 15 August in either Doha or Cairo. Hamas, however, has not yet provided a response to the invitation.

This diplomatic push comes at a critical time following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, an event that has heightened regional tensions.

Iran, attributing the assassination to Israel, has threatened retaliation, although Israel has not officially commented on the incident.

The joint statement from the US, Egypt, and Qatar emphasized the urgency of the situation, inviting both Israel and Hamas to re-engage in talks “to close all remaining gaps and commence implementation of the deal without further delay.”

The mediators also expressed their readiness to present a final proposal to bridge any remaining differences, if necessary.

The statement, signed by US President Joe Biden, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, referenced principles previously outlined by President Biden on 31 May. These principles call for an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages, a framework that has received the backing of the UN Security Council.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin also weighed in, revealing that he had communicated with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant to discuss changes to US forces in the region and to reaffirm support for Israel’s defence.

Austin underscored the importance of securing a ceasefire deal that includes the release of hostages.

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, reaching a ceasefire and securing a hostage release agreement has been a complex challenge.

EDITOR’S PICK:

While Hamas has signalled its interest in a ceasefire, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained that the conflict will only end with the defeat of Hamas.

As tensions remain high, Israel continued its military operations in Gaza on Thursday, with airstrikes reportedly hitting two schools, resulting in the deaths of more than 18 people, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run civil defence force. The Israeli military stated that its strikes targeted Hamas command centres.

The situation could be further complicated by Hamas’ decision to appoint Yahya Sinwar as its new leader, following the assassination of Haniyeh.

Sinwar considered one of Hamas’ most hardline figures, is accused by Israel of orchestrating the 7 October attacks.

In light of potential threats from Iran or its affiliates, Israel’s security cabinet held a meeting in an underground bunker on Thursday, a shift from its usual venue, as reported by Israel’s Channel 13.

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