U.S. officials are optimistic about closing a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas next week, despite recent setbacks from Hamas rejecting a new proposal. Mediators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are working tirelessly to resolve disagreements and finalize the agreement. This comes as tensions in the Middle East remain high, with fears of further conflict.
Proposal for Cease-Fire and Hostage Release
Mediators introduced a “bridging proposal” on Friday aimed at addressing ongoing disputes between Israel and Hamas. The proposal focuses on implementing a cease-fire and arranging the release of hostages. The U.S., Egypt, and Qatar are urging both sides to finalize the deal when talks resume in Cairo next week.
President Joe Biden expressed confidence, stating, “We are closer to a deal than we have ever been.” A senior U.S. official described the proposal as a comprehensive arrangement that has been negotiated over several months. There is growing momentum for a resolution, despite the hurdles.
Hamas Rejects New Conditions
However, Hamas officials have rejected the latest proposal, claiming it introduces new conditions they cannot accept. The details of the proposal remain undisclosed, but it is believed that the disagreements revolve around the timing of a prisoner swap and control over the Philadelphi corridor, a critical buffer zone between Gaza and Egypt.
Despite this rejection, experts believe the setback may not derail the overall peace process. Aaron David Miller, a former U.S. negotiator on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, suggested that neither side is fully prepared for a permanent cease-fire, making a phased approach more likely. This could involve a temporary six-week cease-fire as a starting point.
Regional Tensions and Future Prospects
The region remains tense, with concerns about a potential escalation involving Iran. Israel has recently issued evacuation orders in Gaza, claiming that Hamas militants are using civilian areas to launch rocket attacks. This has further complicated the situation.
Trita Parsi from the Quincy Institute warns that prolonged negotiations without substantial progress could increase pressure on Iran to take action. If the cease-fire deal is delayed, it could lead to more instability in the region.
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